A WEST Cumbrian bakery owner has asked the community to support his business after having trade 'slashed in half' due to roadworks in his village.

Peter Thompson, who owns Thompsons Bakery on Main Street, Frizington has said that improvement works on the A5086 at Frizington closing the road have had a devastating effect on trade in his and other village businesses.

Speaking about the works, he said: "They are saying it's business as usual, but people are having to do diversions around Ennerdale and things like that so I am not going to get customers in. A lot of my trade relies on passing trade... my takings have slashed in half.

"It's halved the takings basically and there is four members of staff in here on full time wages.

"I've never known Frizington Main Street - in all my time living here since being a child - be so quiet."

The roadworks are now moving into their third week, after starting on July 22, with closures in place for a total of six week.

The project has been organised in two phases. The first will cover the area from the edge of the village to just before Yeathouse Road, and the second will extend from Yeathouse Road to beyond the mini roundabout.

Mr Thompson is concerned that the second phase of the roadworks will have an even greater effect on business, with the road directly outside of his shop set to be closed - meaning he will be unable to take buffets to his car for delivery.

The baker, whose family has owned Thompsons Bakery in the village for around 80 years, has urged the public to support local businesses amid the roadworks.

He said: "We have always supported the local village and the area. We were right behind everyone during lockdown, we delivered to the entire area and older people, we really pushed to help everyone and we would really appreciate if people would now support us at this really difficult time."

A Cumberland Council spokesperson said: “We understand that the roadworks in Frizington have been challenging for the local community and apologise for any disruption caused.

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"We are actively working with businesses and residents to support access and deliveries during this period.

“As we enter phase two of the project, which includes significant work from Monday, August 12 through Friday, August 16, there may be temporary restrictions on vehicle access.

"Our on-site traffic marshals are available to assist with access, and we encourage businesses and residents to contact either the site staff or our Highways Hotline at 0300 373 3736 for further support.

“We would like to thank the residents and businesses of Frizington for their support and patience, while we work to improve the road network.”