Bring the milk to the boil, then add the dates and baking soda, stir briefly and let the dates soak for about 15 minutes, then puree.
Beat the butter with the sugar until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time and each time
mix thoroughly. Mix the flour with the baking powder and salt and fold in. Finally add the pureed dates, mix and place the dough in a greased loaf tin lined with baking paper.