A SUCCESSFUL Barrow bakery is considering turning to crowdfunding to finance a move to bigger premises.

Peace and Loaf Bakehouse, in Barrow Market, has been gauging whether its fans would invest money to support it moving to a bigger premises with the option of a cafe and larger bakery.

Last year the bakery raised over £7000 via a Kickstarter campaign to buy a new oven to increase capacity to meet demand.

The campaign initially set out with a target of £5000, which was smashed by generosity of hungry fans.

Caroline Davis and Lucas Hogg, who run the bakery, put out a question on Wednesday via its Facebook page to ask followers if they would support them in another crowdfunding venture.

The post quickly attracted over 120 likes and a lot of enthusiastic support.

Facebook fan Pamela Taylor said: “If you feel it is the right time and place, then yes! Your loyal customers will support and follow you all the way.”

Diana Shand said: “I am your customer at the market. Nothing would stop me from buying from you anywhere else in Barrow. I would back you again.”

Gillian Surgey added: “Just read the article about you in this month’s BBC Good Food Magazine. You (and Barrow!) are well and truly on the national foody map! Keeping the ethos in whatever premises (you choose) is key.”

The bakery - which specialises in producing artisan breads, pastries, cakes, hot food and drinks - was this year named as Best Shop at the prestigious BBC Food and Farming Awards 2018.

It was also named Best Specialist Food Producer at the Cumbria Life Food and Drink Awards 2017.

The bakery has become increasingly busy since selling its first loaf back in 2015 and has been considering moving into bigger premises for some time.

In an interview with Bay Living magazine earlier this year, Caroline said: “There is a brave idea of expanding in to a café space.

"We’re not quite sure when we will do it. We’ll keep an eye out and see what comes along.”