Latest news with #VillageBakery
Business News Wales
2 days ago
- Business
- Business News Wales
Village Bakery MD Honoured for Industry Contribution at Wales Food and Drink Awards
A top baker has been honoured for his 'outstanding contribution' to the Welsh food and drink industry. The accolade was bestowed on Robin Jones, who has led the Wrexham-based Jones Village Bakery through a period of growth, at the Wales Food and Drink Awards. The ceremony to recognise the best of the best in the sector was held at Venue Cymru in Llandudno and was hosted by former BBC journalist and TV presenter Sian Lloyd, who also hails from Wrexham. It was the latest in a long line of awards Robin has received, having previously been named Baker of the Year at the bakery industry Oscars and winning the Enterprise category at the Welsh Government's annual St David's Awards. Last month the Village Bakery was given a King's Award for Enterprise after achieving record overseas sales over the past three years. Robin said that receiving the Outstanding Contribution award was special because he was among his peers in the Welsh food and drink industry. He is a third generation master baker at the Village Bakery which was bought by his father, Alan Jones, and his grandfather, Harry Jones, in 1964. As a teenager, he helped out at the bakery every weekend and in the school holidays and after qualifying as a baker he joined the firm full time, later becoming managing director. He and his brother Christien, an engineer by trade, formed a team at the top of the company as it expanded rapidly over the past two decades. Robin said: 'The outstanding contribution award came as a big shock. We went there to celebrate the success of one of our apprentices, Tilly Squire, who was one of the finalists, which was fantastic. 'I was quite humbled because the success of the Village Bakery isn't down to me per se. It was an award for Christien, for Dad, all the staff and everyone who's worked at the Village Bakery and has put a lot of effort in. 'We've worked very hard with some amazing people and we've seen the bakery grow but without Christien we wouldn't have built such a successful business. 'We've got complementary skills. He's the engineer and I'm the baker – I think that's the ethos of a small business when it comes to growth. We make a good team. 'My Dad always said to me that you don't create a legacy by standing still and I think we have created a heck of a legacy thanks to everybody involved, past and present. It's been one hell of a journey.' Among the major highlights for Robin was the opening of their ground-breaking gluten free bakery in 2008 and the opening of a new, state-of-the-art bakery in 2015 by the then Prince of Wales, and the then Duchess of Cornwall, now Queen Camilla. But tough times lay ahead when their flagship bakery was destroyed by a devastating fire but, most importantly, all the staff evacuated the building without anybody being hurt.. Robin added: 'The fire on the 19th of August in 2019 was a terrible shock but I think it showed what was in the DNA of the people at Village Bakery. 'We turned it around. We've gone from strength to strength and have never looked back. Our darkest day became our finest hour. 'I'm very proud of what we've achieved. The Village Bakery is now recognised as one of the best bakeries in the UK. 'I recently attended a bakery exhibition in Germany and we had a lot of positive feedback from people across Europe which was great. 'We have built our business on innovation and sheer quality and we have more exciting plans in the pipeline so the company keeps evolving and growing – it's great to be part of that. 'The secret of our success is that we never stand still – it's one of things I insist on and that will be in our DNA forever.' Liz Brookes, co-founder of the Wales Food and Drink Awards, said: 'Robin Jones has not only helped drive incredible growth in the family firm over the past 30 years, he has also inspired others through his passion to upskill local young people and his contribution to the wider Welsh food and drink sector. 'Jones' Village Bakery is now one of the biggest employers in the Welsh food and drink industry and its successful export story is flying the flag for Wales.'
Leader Live
4 days ago
- Business
- Leader Live
Wrexham baker honoured at Wales Food and Drink Awards
Robin Jones, managing director of the Wrexham-based Jones Village Bakery, received the Outstanding Contribution award at this year's Wales Food and Drink Awards, held at Venue Cymru in Llandudno. The event was hosted by Sian Lloyd, former BBC journalist and TV presenter. The award celebrated his service to the sector and his role in expanding the family business. Mr Jones said: "The outstanding contribution award came as a big shock. "We went there to celebrate the success of one of our apprentices, Tilly Squire, who was one of the finalists, which was fantastic. "I was quite humbled because the success of the Village Bakery isn't down to me per se. "It was an award for Christien, for Dad, all the staff and everyone who's worked at the Village Bakery and has put a lot of effort in." READ MORE: 'You've done Wrexham proud': Olly Pearson celebrated after BGT success Wrexham fans to travel nearly 6,700 miles in Championship next season A third-generation baker, Mr Jones began working at the family bakery as a teenager. The business was purchased by his father, Alan, and grandfather, Harry, in 1964. After qualifying as a baker, Mr Jones joined the company full-time, later becoming managing director. He and his brother Christien, an engineer, have led the business for more than 20 years. He said: "We've worked very hard with some amazing people and we've seen the bakery grow but without Christien we wouldn't have built such a successful business. "We've got complementary skills. "He's the engineer and I'm the baker – I think that's the ethos of a small business when it comes to growth. "We make a good team. 'My Dad always said to me that you don't create a legacy by standing still, and I think we have created a heck of a legacy thanks to everybody involved, past and present." Jones Village Bakery also launched a gluten-free bakery in 2008 and opened a new facility in 2015, which was attended by the then Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, now King Charles and Queen Camilla. However, the company has also faced challenges, including a fire that destroyed its flagship bakery in August 2019. He said: "The fire on August 19 in 2019, was a terrible shock but I think it showed what was in the DNA of the people at Village Bakery. "We turned it around. "We've gone from strength to strength and have never looked back. "Our darkest day became our finest hour. "I'm very proud of what we've achieved." Liz Brookes, co-founder of the Wales Food and Drink Awards, said: "Robin Jones has not only helped drive incredible growth in the family firm over the past thirty years, he has also inspired others through his passion to upskill local young people and his contribution to the wider Welsh food and drink sector. "Jones' Village Bakery is now one of the biggest employers in the Welsh food and drink industry, and its successful export story is flying the flag for Wales." Last month, the bakery received a King's Award for Enterprise in recognition of its record international sales in the past three years.
BBC News
29-05-2025
- General
- BBC News
New 20mph zone gets mixed response in Manningham area of Bradford
The latest 20mph zone to be introduced in Bradford is currently being assessed by the council to see how it is affecting drivers' well as the lower speed restriction covering Manningham and Heaton, speed humps and temporary road closures are in place to improve road speed restrictions and traffic-calming measures are already in place in the city centre, Shipley, Ilkley and BBC asked residents and business owners what impact they have had in the latest areas to join the safety scheme. Hamza Shakoor, who owns Shakoor & Sons Butchers on Emm Lane in Heaton, said he was "indifferent" about the scheme at first, "but it is a good thing".He said: "This is a long stretch of road, and it's a main road, so cars normally come up flying at high speeds."It's better because they have to slow down for the speed bumps." Mr Shakoor praised the installation of a pedestrian crossing with push-button traffic lights near a local he criticised the use of concrete planters to temporarily block off one entry lane to North Park Road as it caused "more congestion" on the main Emm Lane. Lisa Robertshaw, who runs the nearby Village Bakery, was sceptical of the impact of the new said: "I don't think it's particularly made any difference at all. "I mean if you see the cars speeding up and down here, if you watch them... none of them do it (20mph)."She said she was in favour of the new limit but wanted more Robersthaw said the speed restriction signs were too small and many drivers were unaware of the new limit. Stephen Todd, caretaker at St Bede's and St Joseph's Catholic College, has lived in the area all his said: "I would say a bigger issue, for example, is the parking zones that they have."Maybe not so much outside shops, but elsewhere where there are no shops and they're parking so it narrows the road which does make it more dangerous."He said he did not see the need to reduce the old 30mph speed Kalhousova and her son Samuel Kalhous live on a street that has temporary concrete planters placed at one said: "We feel it is blocking the road for families like us living on the street."Every time we go to school, which is nearby, we have to take a diversion onto the main road to get there."I think it's alright if the speed limit is reduced. I think there should be speed bumps but I don't think there should be blocked-off roads." Alex Ross-Shaw, executive member for regeneration, planning and transport at Bradford Council, said: "We're committed to making our neighbourhoods safer, healthier and more accessible for everyone."The new 20mph zone in Manningham is a key part of that vision and has been shaped by local input throughout."He thanked everyone who took part in the council's consultation and those who "supported the scheme".The findings of the review will be presented to councillors at a later date. Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.
Scottish Sun
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Four savvy ways to make your Eurovision gathering glorious this weekend
Plus enjoy the Summer Grill Dine In deal at M&S SUN SAVERS Four savvy ways to make your Eurovision gathering glorious this weekend Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) THE cheesiest night of the year has arrived – and it's party time. If you're hosting a Eurovision gathering, use our sweepstake on pages 12-13 and go big on the Euro fun. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up From how to dress to what to eat, here's how to win when you're singing . . . LOOK THE PART: Going all out in a ball gown or tuxedo, just like the telly hosts, will put everyone in the party spirit. Taking your clothing inspiration from a country or one of the more outrageous acts from Eurovision history will start the laughs. Switzerland is hosting this year, so dust off your lederhosen or go as a giant watch. SCORES ON THE DOORS: Print or make your own scorecards for guests to rate each performance from nul points to 12. You could play it straight and include categories such as singing talent, costume, stage presence and overall vibe. Or make up a silly scoring system based on things like skimpy costumes, emotional overload and dodgy dancing. After each song, everyone writes down their scores. Then reveal the winners before the official votes roll in. FULL HOUSE: Eurovision bingo is an essential part of the evening. You can print out bingo sheets online or make your own — and tick off events as you see them come up. Surprise Eurovision star steals the show during Finland's raunchy performance Include classics such as a glitter cannon and wind machine or contestants shedding happy tears or making a mid-song costume change. Prizes for completing one line, two lines or a full house will keep eyes down and excitement up. MORE CHEESE: What better food to serve your guests as you watch the cheesy action? Make fondue using gruyere and emmental cheeses, white wine, cornflour and garlic. Check out the Swiss fondue recipe at Dip in chunks of bread, cooked potatoes, vegetables and pickles. Serve Swiss chocolate to keep everyone sweet and make Eurovision-themed cocktails and 'nul points' mocktails. 7 Four savvy ways to make your Eurovision gathering glorious this weekend Credit: Getty All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability. Deal of the day 7 Save £15 on this Accessorize crossbody bag Credit: Accessorize PERK up your outfit with this Accessorize crossbody bag, down from £30 to £15, also available in sunny yellow. SAVE: £15 Cheap treat 7 Pick up a pack of four Village Bakery birthday cake pops from Aldi for £1.99 FOR a sweet celebration, pick up a pack of four Village Bakery birthday cake pops from Aldi for £1.99. Also available in cookies & cream. Just the ticket MISSED out on £380 Glasto tickets? Pick up a promotional pack of £3 Clipper Fairtrade tea and enjoy a tasty cuppa while you enter its competition to win one of ten pairs of tickets to the festival. Top swap 7 Brighten walls with the bold Mon Cheri print from for £60 Credit: Supplied 7 Or pick a similar look, for just £15.95 from Credit: Supplied BRIGHTEN walls with the bold Mon Cheri print from £60 (59x42cm), or pick a similar look, for £15.95 from (40x30cm). SAVE: £44.05 Little helper ENJOY the Summer Grill Dine In deal at M&S. Pick two BBQ mains, such as smashed burgers, posh dogs or chicken shawarma, plus two sides, for £12 – saving up to £7.90. Shop & save 7 Save £10 on the Essentials oscillating fan from Screwfix Credit: Supplied COOL off with the Essentials oscillating fan from Screwfix, down from £29.99 to £19.99. SAVE: £10 Hot right now FANCY a spritz? Aperol, 70cl, is down from £17.50 to £10 with your More card at Morrisons (offer is in-store only). Cheers! PLAY NOW TO WIN £200 7 Join thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle JOIN thousands of readers taking part in The Sun Raffle. Every month we're giving away £100 to 250 lucky readers - whether you're saving up or just in need of some extra cash, The Sun could have you covered. Every Sun Savers code entered equals one Raffle ticket. The more codes you enter, the more tickets you'll earn and the more chance you will have of winning!
Daily Mirror
16-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Mirror
Aldi releases 50p 'Starbucks-style' dessert in two popular flavours
Shoppers were conviced they could end their expensive habit at the coffee shop and opt for Aldi's verison instead Aldi has brought out a new product that is set to give Starbucks customers a cheaper alternative to a popular sweet treat. The simple yet 'tasty' option costs just pennies each when compared to what the major brand is charging for something similar. The supermarket is selling its own Cake Pops in packs of four for £1.99, making each lolly worth 50p. While prices can vary by location, you can generally expect to pay up to £3 for a single 'cake pop' at Starbucks. The supermarket version comes in two flavours - birthday cake, and cookies and cream. Both can be found with other cakes in the baked section of the shop and have been available since May 12. The Village Bakery Birthday Cake Cake Pops are crafted with a strawberry and vanilla combination. Meanwhile, the Village Bakery Cookies and Cream Cake Pops are made with cookie crumb sprinkles and sweet vanilla flavouring. The bite-sized delights have quickly caught attention online from fans of the coffee shop chain who want to make their indulgence in a sweet treat that little more affordable. Savvy shopper Daniel, who runs the Snack Reviews Facebook page, showed them on shop shelves - and people had plenty to say about the discovery of the new sweet treats in the comment section. One said: "Looks just like Starbucks to me! Hopefully taste nice too." Another added: "This will save me lots of money I've spent on Starbucks!" A third wrote: "Omg my kids are gonna be made up! The price that I pay for these at Starbucks for the kids is extortionate!" Someone else quickly made the comparison: "Cheaper than Starbucks!" A fifth posted: "I'll see if they have these at the weekend so we haven't got to pay £3 for one at Starbucks!" Some have claimed that the treats do taste very sweet, to the point one person called them "beyond sickly". Another claimed: "They look nice, but in my personal opinion, they were too sweet and waxy for my liking." A third suggested: "I have to say they wasn't the best the icing was horrible and the sponge was like dough inside. I won't be buying them again." Recently holding onto its crown as the UK's cheapest supermarket, Aldi recently hit headlines with its plans to continue expanding across the country. The supermarket has more than 1,050 stores in the UK but has a long-term goal of increasing this to more than 1,500 stores. Famed for its affordable food and ever-changing middle aisle, Aldi has revealed its wish list of locations where it wants to open more shops across England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland. The extensive list is available online, but shoppers can still champion their own town if it hasn't already made the cut. To nominate an area for consideration, email NextNewStore@ and include your location's name in the subject line. You must send your submission by June 8.
