Local Face: Peter Marks

We bid a fond farewell to the previous owners of the Baker’s Shop, Chris and Sue Stockford and wish them all the best for the future. Welcome to Peter Marks who took over The Baker’s Shop on 11 August.

Peter is from Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset, and received an excellent catering training in the British Army before moving to Aylesbury with his wife Christine 28 years ago to develop his business as Peter’s Fish Bar. They have three children and Christine works for the St John Ambulance sitting service which gives respite to carers.

The business premises and name changed over the years to The Mermaids and finally The Codfather on Bicester Road, Regional Winner of the Fish & Chip Shop of the Year competition, 2002. In 2003 Peter won second prize in the Aylesbury Business Excellence Awards organised by the Bucks Herald. These awards have led to appearances on Central Television, and national as well as local radio. Peter will enter The Bakers Shop into similar competitions in future so watch this space!!!

After spending 25 years working late nights he decided to try his hand at early mornings and to take on the challenge of the bakery business. He has also appointed a manageress and together they hope to become well known to the regular customers who visit and support The Baker’s Shop.

Peter believes that Wendover is lucky to have its own Baker’s Shop with so many closing down due to the supermarkets takeover of the retail trade. He is well aware of a statement recently issued by the National Bakers Federation on the decline of Bakers shops. People must “use it or lose it” and Peter believes that supermarkets are unable to provide the level of service and quality you get from independent bakers.

Wendover Baker’s Shop has a reputation throughout Buckinghamshire for fine bread withno preservatives and low salt. This is of especial importance to people with high blood pressure or other conditions which require a low salt diet.Gluten free productscan also be ordered. Another specialist product is live baker’s yeast which Peter supplies in quantity to RAF Halton and a large local estate but will sell for domestic use also.

All filled rolls and sandwiches are freshly prepared while you wait using ingredients from local suppliers wherever possible. They offer hot and cold pies, savoury and sweet baker’s fayre with the option of healthy and vegetarian alternatives. Peter has extended the range of breads, for example, to include ciabatta. Peter has also extended the range of cakes and continues to supply celebration cakes for that special occasion, made to your specification.

Having a party for any occasion, or a business meeting at your offices? The Bakers will cater to your requirements on “ready to serve” platters.

Peter and his dedicated staff look forward to serving customers looking for the familiar but also being tempted by the new. It is definitely worth a visit to this friendly local Baker’s Shop with that personal touch, serving the community.