A baker who has opened a new shop in Bridport says he's fallen in love with the town and its positivity. 

Oxford's Bakery launched its sixth Dorset shop on  West Street in the town last week. 

The business is 113 years old.

Fourth-generation baker Steven Oxford said: "We quietly opened door last week to test the systems and get acclimatised and then we really officially opened this week.

“It’s just been constant stream of positivity from the people of Bridport. I’ve fallen in love with Bridport. It’s been a really positive start and I’m over the moon.

“We didn’t tell anyone we would be opening. When we had the bread delivered, I quickly went to move the van and left the door ajar.

"When I got back in less than an hour there were about sixteen people queuing up outside the door. It's been great."

Mr Oxford began renovating the site in May. 

Speaking previously, 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."

Dorset Echo: Steven OxfordSteven 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.

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.