A HEREFORD shop has been put up for rent after costs spiralled amid the cost of living crisis.

Vic Blandford took the leap to open her own shop in October 2019, bringing life to an empty unit in Capuchin Yard, off the pretty Church Street near Hereford Cathedral.

The vegan specialist had been creating fabulously colourful bespoke cakes in her mother's kitchen before taking the plunge and moving to her own premises.

But the shop is now available to rent after the baker announced in September that she would be closing the shop as the cost of living crisis bites.

Agents Sunderlands said the property comprises a small brick-built terraced unit with centrally situated glazed double doors and display windows.

Inside, it has a small retail area with storage and a kitchenette to the rear.

Writing on social media, in September Ms Blandford said: "This is by far the hardest post I’ve ever had to make and one that truly breaks my heart. Unfortunately I’ve made the extremely difficult decision to close my business. Vic’s Vegan Bakes has been my life since I was 20 and I am so incredibly grateful for all the support I have received over the past almost seven years.

"What started off as a small venture in my mum’s kitchen quickly grew into a full-time gig! Attending numerous events over England and Wales, catering weddings, travelling hundreds of miles to deliver cakes & getting my very own premises.

"The increase in costs; ingredients, packaging, fuel, postage, bills etc has left me with no decision but to close as I just don’t have the financial resources to continue. I’m hoping to do a mega cake sale from the studio before I say goodbye next month (October).

"Thanks for every single order and for the support you’ve shown."

The shop held a sell-out cake sale on October 1 ahead of its closing, but Ms Blandford said she hopes it will not be the end for her business.

"It was a really emotional day for me, it hasn’t truly sunk in yet," she wrote.

"I have two more weddings before I close for good next weekend (but hopefully not forever )"

The shop is to let with agents Sunderlands for £3,000 per annum

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