Self-taught Eden baker Mike Hall is toasting more fine feedback from his customers and inclusion among the industry’s elite.
Former salesman Mike, now 62, switched jobs after 30 years as a salesman, turning his baking hobby into a new venture.
He first launched Brough-based business Ivy Cottage Baker. And, after setting up a micro bakery, he began offering bread-making courses, attended popular Cumbria events and started giving both talks and demonstrations.
After changing career, Mike saw his profile rise with regular inclusion in the World Bread Awards UK roll of honour.
Customers have been asked to nominate their favourites in a host of categories for 2021. And Ivy Cottage Baker was named North West region runner-up in the World Bread Awards’ #breadheroes21 ceremony. It is his fourth accolade in the past five years.
“I’ve had some really nice comments and messages on my Facebook page,” said Mike. “It’s nice to know that what you’re doing is appreciated.”
He has been “busy, busy” during the past 12 months, introducing a fennel and seaweed bread which has become popular and continuing his deliveries.
He also hopes to restart bread-baking courses in the very near future, and take his goods back to markets and other events after an enforced break due to the pandemic.
“It will be nice to set the stall up and have a chat with people,” he said.
Mike agreed his 2021 recognition was all the more satisfying given the calibre of nominations and award-winners. “One of the guys has been baking for 50 years.
“Another company employs 60 people,” he said. “When you think what you’re up against, I produce it in a converted outhouse, and I bake, pack and deliver it all myself!”
