Published: 12/05/2017
BUDDING baker and ex dinner lady Mandy Robinson has embarked on a new venture selling her home bakes at her local markets.
Mandy is enjoying her third week selling her school dinner-themed cakes at Whitehaven and Egremont Markets.
Mandy saw her dreams become a reality quickly when she made the initial enquiry to Copeland Borough Council and was standing selling her local produce at Whitehaven Market the very next week.
Copeland Council supported Mandy in achieving her regular place at Whitehaven Market advising her on the appropriate insurance requirements and carrying out a food premises inspection, for which she received a five-star rating.
Mandy, of Egremont, said: “It all happened very quickly, the council were very helpful and supportive and the stalls are great value for money.
“I wanted to set up Dinner Ladies Cakes several years ago, this year my daughter is leaving home and after being a single parent I thought I have to take the bull by the horns, believe in myself and start up on my own.
“I used to be a dinner lady at Whitehaven School and was promoted to assistant cook and made all the cakes.
“Everyone I spoke to about my business said that it was a good idea so I looked into taking up stalls on Whitehaven and Egremont Market every Thursday and Friday.
“It’s my ambition in the future to have a shop that sells everyone’s school cakes and the markets are a great way for me to dip my toe in the water.
“I’ve had a lot of help from my mam and friends and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them and all my customers.”
To celebrate the national ‘Love Your Local Market’ campaign, Copeland Borough Council is offering one free of charge pitch at Whitehaven Market on May 18, 20, 25, 27 and one at Egremont and Cleator Moor Market on May 19 and 26.
In addition, those who are selected to sell their products at Whitehaven Market will be provided with a stall, and all they need to do is bring along the products they wish to sell on the day.
Whitehaven Market has been an increasing success since its relaunch in October 2016. The number of regular stallholders has almost doubled and income for the council has increased by over 35 per cent.
For more information and to register your interest email whitehavenmarket@copeland.gov.uk or call 01946 593014.
The Love Your Local Market fortnight is led by the National Association of British Market Authorities and over 1,200 markets take part in the annual campaign.
