Carer Finds Fame Reviewing Custard Slices

A carer from Swansea has found an unusual path to online fame through her dedicated reviews of custard slices. Dawn Fearn, 52, started posting videos on TikTok as a way to find personal respite from her physically and mentally taxing role caring full-time for two elderly women with dementia. Her venture evolved into a popular 'custard slice tour' across south Wales, attracting more than 50,000 followers across social media platforms.

Fearn's online presence has fostered new friendships and serves as a way to honor her late mother, who shared childhood memories of 'custard slice days' with her. The reviews, initially posted on Google, became more focused on TikTok around February of the previous year. Her videos are typically recorded on Fridays when the women she cares for attend a day center, providing her time to visit local cafes and bakeries.

Her signature series emerged from an idea to review custard slices, inspired by childhood treats. She has now reviewed 16 different custard slices, with Glynneath Tea Rooms, Fablas in Cowbridge, and Crazy Baker in Swansea being among her top picks. Fearn uses a unique judging system, including a custom 'custard slice ruler,' to rate each pastry out of 10. The ideal custard slice for her consists of two puff pastry layers with custard and white icing, reminiscent of those from her youth.

The origins of the custard slice are thought to be influenced by the French mille-feuille, with variations found globally. In the UK, it typically features puff pastry, custard, and icing sugar. Fearn often shares the slices she reviews with her husband and the ladies she cares for. Upcoming stops on her tour include Cardiff, Newport, and Cwmbran.