A SHIPLEY firm has been named the county winner in this year's National Bakery Awards.

Just Desserts was recognised for its sustained growth from its beginnings as a start up by husband and wife team James and Carol O’Dwyer more than 35 years ago to a thriving business today employing more than 30 staff.

The business’s continued investment, including its recent £160,000 expansion programme to increase the footprint of the bakery, its premium quality, handcrafted product range and investment in staff were all praised.

The family-run firm is now entered into the National Bakery Awards grand final to be held next month where it goes up against three other Yorkshire-based bakeries for the regional crown and more than 65 bakeries nationally for the National Bakery of the Year accolade.

Mr O’Dwyer said: “We are extremely proud to be named as the County Winner in this year’s National Bakery Awards. We are at an exciting time for the business, with our bakery expansion strategy well on track.

"This award is testament to our hard working and creative bakery team, who always rise to any challenge and continue to deliver top notch, innovative products that our customers love.”

The National Bakery Awards are open to all UK bakeries to celebrate the continued hard work and best in class organisations in the sector.

Just Desserts produces a wide range of premium desserts and pastries which are traditionally handcrafted to its own recipes.

The company was established in 1985.