We're highlighting the shortlisted bakeries in our competition in the News & Star. Each of the establishments will be featured over ten issues.

Central Bakery, Harraby has been nominated by News & Star readers as one of the ten finalists in its 'Best Bakery 2024' award.

The bakery, which is located on Central Avenue, is run by co-owners Sharon Olive and Gary Nelson who are assisted by their son Christopher Olive who acts as companies head baker.

Sharon and Gary opened Central Bakery in Harraby in November 2018.

After being informed of Central Bakery, Harraby's nomination for the News & Star's 'Best Bakery 2024', Sharon was on hand to express her delight. 

She said: "We are absolutely over the moon to be nominated.

"This is what you want, you want your customers to recognise the work that we put into the bakery so we are over the moon. 

"We have an amazing set of staff here at the bakery and this nomination is a testament to their hard work. We have some bakers that come in from two o'clock in the morning to make sure that everything is baked fresh and made fresh for the day."

Sharon also discussed why she loves owning a bakery, from the buzz she gets from selling freshly baked cakes and bread to greeting their 'fabulous customers' every day.

She said: "I think I have always had a passion for baking and it was always my dream to have a bakery. 

"I love seeing our quality products enjoyed by our customers. We have a lovely array of cakes, sandwiches, filled rolls, and bread and I love seeing all of that out on the counters in the morning.

"I love seeing the queues out the door and we have got fabulous customers who love the friendly atmosphere we have here.

"Also, it is long hours but you get the buzz of seeing everything made in the Bakery."