Ashington-based Glenton’s Bakery has opened a new shop in Blyth, Northumberland.

The opening follows the business scaling up its operations and investing in new machinery after securing funding from Barclays bank.

“We decided we had the capacity to launch our ninth shop – in Blyth,” said Keith Glenton, managing director at Glenton’s Bakery.

“The new machinery makes our operation a lot more efficient and environmentally responsible and we are delighted that Barclays has recognised our potential and supported our growth plans.”

Glenton’s stores are still open amid the coronavirus outbreak. The company is following social distancing measures, with only two customers allowed in shops at a time. The business is still thriving, said Glenton.

It is also offering a free home delivery service in the local area, including Blyth and Ashington.

The company said the first week of trading at the Blyth shop has been a success.

Established in 2006, Glenton’s serves freshly baked bread, sandwiches, cakes, biscuits, savouries and cream cakes.