A FAMILY-run bakery business is busier than ever after diversifying to offer a delivery service to residents stuck in lockdown.

In normal times Norwegian Bakers, which is based at Wivenhoe Business Centre, runs a stall at farmers markets and the like across Colchester.

However, with markets cancelled until further notice due to the coronavirus pandemic, the business has branched out, offering deliveries to Wivenhoe, Colchester and the surrounding areas.

The service has proved so popular business owners Richard Monk and Jessika Hagerup are considering it as a permanent venture.

Mr Monk said: “It has been a challenge but we are up for it. We are quite old fashioned and we try to do things in a friendly way. I am chatting to everyone on the doorstep.

“You realise there are some people who are not speaking to anyone else.

“The feedback has almost brought tears to our eyes. The deliveries have brightened up people’s days.”

Norwegian Bakers normally specialises in creating traditional Scandinavian treats, all of which are vegan.

Halstead Gazette:

But to fill a gap in the market the firm is now baking two different types of bread as well as buns and cakes.

Business is booming, the firm is delivering more than 30 orders a day and Jessika’s daughter, Anna-Sophie, has been brought in as an extra pair of hands.

Halstead Gazette:

Mr Monk said: “She has stepped up to the plate and now she is coming in at 4am to help her mum with the baking.

“I have been really impressed and I am proud of her.”

Visit norwegianbakers.com or search Norwegian Bakers on Facebook.

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