Oxford's Bakery to open new branch in west Dorset

The 113-year-old Oxford's Bakery currently has five bakeries in Dorset in its line-up - and intends to make Bridport its sixth by late June.

Spotting an opportunity to get off the ground in the town, fourth-generation baker Steven Oxford is looking to open the new establishment on West Street following renovations.

The bakery will be looking to start hiring over the next few weeks and will be looking to employ around 10 or 12 people in a mixture of full-time and part-time roles.

Mr Oxford, whose great-grandfather started the bakery, said: "I am a big fan of Bridport. It is a thriving market town and fiercely independent which I really admire. We will be able to fit the mould for the people there.

"We would only go somewhere I think we are needed and we feel now is the right time. There is definitely a gap for a bakery like us.

"We are really excited. I have been looking at Bridport for a long time. I have not felt quite such a buzz in our business. There is no trepidation, just excitement and joy. I think it  is going to be good for the town."

Steven Oxford (Image: Oxford's Bakery)

The artisan bakery is described as 'small but fully formed', and will offer a mix of traditional baking and contemporary items - including an award-winning sourdough and even doughnuts. There will also be a 'small café offering', with seating.

This comes after the Punch and Judy Bakery, which was also on West Street, closed earlier this year blaming rising costs.

Read more: Punch & Judy Bakery on West Street, Bridport closes

Mr Oxford added: "We are not there to replace anyone but to offer something new. Every bakery has its own identity, its own culture and its own ovens.

"We have lots of business friends and links to the area and have had a lot of positive feedback already."

The chain was started in Alweston near Sherborne and has branches in Dorchester, Sherborne, Sturminster Newton and Canford Cliffs, Poole.

Renovations are currently underway at the site's premises.