The region's residents were invited to have a slice of the action as the East of England Co-operative Society launched a campaign to raise its profile.

Commemorative cakes were produced at Co-op stores at Sheringham, Manningtree in Essex and Combs Ford in Suffolk on Thursday, for the Yours to Share fortnight.

The theme is designed to represent the Co-op model of shared ownership and the share in profits that makes it different.

In May, East of England Co-operative members shared a �3.1m dividend payout.

Over the next two weeks, the society is holding a series of roadshows, with tastings of products made by other co-operative businesses, such as dairies and Fairtrade groups.

People will also be encouraged to sign a petition to reduce the gap between the rich and the poor.

April Armstrong, head of member and community services for the society, was at the Sheringham store for the cake-cutting ceremony.

She said: 'Co-operatives are a unique business model. We do so many good things and support the local community, but hide our light under a bushel.

'The idea is to raise their profile. Co-operatives are owned by members, not shareholders or fat cats. And we have a very good community investment programme.'