A SMALL cake business in the Winyates Craft Centre is on the verge of closing because of the pandemic and this month’s lockdown.
But it’s not too late for the people of Redditch to save the wonderful Magicakes by offering extra support and donating ingredients.
Owner Shelley Millward is usually rushed off her feet baking delicious cakes for people to enjoy.
But the introduction of tough government measures has seen her income drop through the floor, struggling to even pay November rent.
“Luckily Redditch Borough Council has been very kind and understanding when it comes to delaying payment,” said Shelley.
“But I still have other bills to pay which is a huge worry.”
Shelley says her business is struggling because people are not celebrating birthdays and special occasions in the same way as they were before lockdown.
Her cake shop is also usually a place for people to sit, unwind and have a chat while socially distanced but even that has had to stop.
“I set up this business to make people smile,” she added.
“I enjoy making cakes and I don’t charge people for my time.
“As long as I can live and feed my children and other people are happy, that’s all I care about.”
And despite all of this, Shelley, who did a huge amount of work for the community in the first lockdown, is still running a Christmas competition.
People have been writing in to Magicakes to nominate someone they think deserves a free cake on one of the 12 days leading up to Christmas.
“I’ve had some really sad stories about people losing loved ones, it’s been really touching,” said Shelley.
If you’re interested in nominating someone for a free cake or would like to make a donation please message Magicakes on Facebook.
