Twyford-based cake shop Frostings closed its doors on Saturday after 21 years of trading, having created over 7,000 cakes during that time.

Owner Wendy Hopes hung up her apron over the weekend, and is now looking forward to more than two weeks of holiday a year.

Hopes started making cakes for her daughter’s birthdays, then learned sugar flower-making at Reading College. She later made cakes for friends and friends of friends. After visiting the shop in Twyford for supplies, she ended up taking over from the previous owner.

“It was brave, having previously worked with children at Micklands playgroup, and Caversham and Addington schools for many years. I was very nervous. I didn’t even know how to use the till. I couldn’t have done the business side without my husband Tony, who is an accountant.”

Her creations have featured at weddings, birthdays, christenings, funerals, baby showers and anniversaries.

Many customers paid tributes to the business and Hopes, showering her with appreciative gifts and cards.

One customer said: “Wendy was so patient and kind with her advice. It didn’t matter what I asked. I once took a fruit cake in for her to pronounce on whether it was cooked. Going to see her, seated at the little counter in her pretty and well-organised shop, was like visiting a revered and wise oracle.”

Earlier this month, Taylors Bakers shut its doors after more than 55 years.