THE proud winner of this week's Trader of the Week goes to Barrow Market’s very own ‘market hero’ for the creation of some of the most delicious cakes in town.

Jo Nixon, owner of The Chunky Monkey Cake Company, has been going strong for three and a half years with her delicious baking receiving rave reviews from customers.

The 39-year-old previously spent 12 years in the Royal Artillery, serving in both Afghanistan and Bosnia, before setting up her baking business.

Jo said: “During my years service I really wanted to raise money for the Army Benevolent Fund (now The Soldiers’ Charity).

"It was then that I decided to take up baking.

“My crew and I would go around the garrison selling cakes to help raise money.”

Then, in 2015, Jo decided to leave the army pursuing her dream of selling cakes as a living.

Since then her business has thrived creating all sorts of treats - from wedding cakes, birthday cakes, buns and muffins - you name it Jo can do it.

She offers a bespoke service and regularly attends events locally.

The baker, originally from Millom, also kindly donates leftover cakes from large events to charity.

She also offers a lunches, including salads, wraps and soup in the market.

Her dream for the business is to stock other cafés with her delicious cakes.

Jacqui Armstrong, admin assistant at Barrow Market, said: “I can remember when Jo first enquired about getting a stall.

“She had just come out of the army and I remember her saying ‘I can use a rifle but I’m also good at baking cakes’. Since then she has developed a fabulous and thriving business. She’s our very own market hero.

“She’s just so positive all the time and now has so many loyal customers.”

If you would like to pay Jo a visit head down to Barrow Market based in Duke Street.

If you would like to know more about Jo’s services you can contact her on 07754082390 or emailing her at chunkymonkeycakes@outlook.com.

Jo is also developing a new website so stay tuned, but until then you can learn more on her Facebook page.

With Trader of the Week now up and running we are keen to hear of any other traders that you feel stand out. Contact reporter Charlie Fox on charlie.fox@newsquest.co.uk with your nominations as well as a reason why you feel they stand out.