Gedney Hill villagers disappointed after store will be closing a bakery

Complaints have been lodged after it was announced that a well-loved bakery will be closing down.

Villagers are disappointed to be losing the bakery which is based within the McColls shop in Gedney Hill now the store is being leased to supermarket chain Morrisons.

Richard Brader(48), who lives in Throckenholt and is a regular at the bakery, is disappointed at the news.

He said: “Not only have we lost something that’s been in the village for many years, but this is quite a rural location.

“A lot of people rely on that local fresh produce. It’s an ageing population as well, who are even more reliant on it. They have no public transport to get to the big cities, so it’s a bit of a problem for us.

“It’s just closing with no consultation with the council or anything.

“Obviously it’s a business idea, but it has no regard for the local community.

“It’s not even as though the bakery makes a loss. They sell everything they make every day, so I can’t imagine they’d be losing profits.”

Mr Brader has been in contact with various parties over the possibility of saving the bakery.

“I spoke to the local parish council immediately, and they didn’t even know about the problem. The chairman is on board, but he has to take it to the other councillors at their meeting to see what their stance will be.

“I’d think they’ll come on board, and I’ve told them I can’t do this on my own. They need to step up to the plate and organise a public meeting with the directors of Morrisons and McColl’s.”

A McColl’s spokesperson said: “As part of our plans to provide the local community with an enhanced range of fresh groceries and convenience goods, the Gedney Hill store will be transitioning to a Morrisons Daily format, which will be owned and operated by McColl’s.

“To facilitate this, we have made the difficult decision to remove the in-store bakery. Whether the need is breakfast, lunch, dinner or just a light snack, we are excited to offer the Gedney Hill community with a wide range of everyday convenience goods which will include Morrisons own-label food and quality baked goods including bread and pastries / quality wrapped bakery goods.”