A steering committee for the formation of a National Skills Academy for bakery has been formed, made up of 12 representatives across bakery, supply and industry associations.

Justine Fosh, director of the National Skills Academy of Food & Drink Manufacturing, which is helping to set up the academy, described the response as "fabulous". The initial plan was to have 10 committee members, but it was increased to 12 due to the high level of interest from the industry. The group will meet later this month to agree its aims and objectives.

The 12 representatives on the steering committee are: George Thomopoulos, Rich Products; Dave Brooks, Finsbury Food Group; Matthew May, ABST; Paul Morrow, ABIM and British Bakels; Nigel Toon, Allied Bakeries; David Mizon, Worshipful Company of Bakers; Ian Wilson, NAMB; David Tomlinson, BCA; Colin Lomax, BSB; Fiona Wheal, Warburtons; Vera Foreman, Morrisons; Ian Thompson, Thompson’s Bakery.