THE smell of freshly baked loaves which has wafted down an Accrington street for the last century will drift away when a well-known bakery closes later this month because of a fall in trade.

The store, known since 1994 as World of Baking, has been tempting customers through its doors in Willows Lane since the turn of the century.

But the ovens will be turned off for the last time on Friday, October 22, and four staff will lose their jobs.

The bakery has become famous in Accrington for its range of bread and has cooked up more than 125 varieties of hand-made loaves over the years.

But the business has been recently existing on the crumbs of comfort provided by a few loyal customers and is set to close due to lack of trade.

Proprietors Peter Tampsett and Lynn Monk, who describe themselves as "artisan" or skilled bakers, say the fall in trade is the knock-on effect of nearby factories and businesses quitting the area. An attempt by the bakery to become wholesalers for other local outlets has not received a good response.

Environmental health officers had also handed the owners a list of building requirements which they felt unable to meet. The building will be converted into a house.

Peter said: "It has become apparent that it wouldn't be viable to continue trading. Trade has plummeted over the last few years.

"Everyone seems to think our bread is marvellous but then you don't hear from them again.

"I'm extremely disappointed with the direction the food industry is taking.

"I'm sorry to say this is one artisan baker who will not be looking for another job in the bakery trade."

Lynn added: "We suspected when we took over the business that we'd be the last to bake here.

"We have some loyal customers, many of whom travel quite a distance to buy our products. It's a great shame there just aren't enough of them."

The pair are looking for a good home for two ovens dating back to 1910 and the 1950s.

The former steam-driven Artofex oven and the Tom Chandley brick-built gas oven would suit a museum or charity group. For more details call 01254 232539.

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