Bakery with 150 years of history in Wolverhampton closes suddenly

BF Done & Son has operated in the Wednesfield and Ashmore Park areas of the city since 1867 - but its Griffiths Drive shop closed its doors around two weeks ago without explanation.

The historic firm traces its roots back to James William Done who opened a small grocery and bakery shop in Wednesfield High Street in 147 years ago.

A spokeswoman for the much-loved independent firm told the Express & Star the shop would be closed 'until further notice'.

No further explanation was given.

The associated Done's Craft Bakers wholesalers near Penkridge is still operating.

Wednesfield North Councillor Phil Bateman said he would be sad to see the store go if it does not re-open.

He said: "I do hope that the business has not closed down for good. But the facts are that it is closed now at perhaps the busiest time of the year. This is a fact that speaks for itself. I do hope that the business can be re-opened. Its these artisan businesses that make such a difference and create the individual opportunity that many in our society feel is worth preserving.

"It has a history going back 150 years and certainly I remember it over the decades.

"It has long been popular - first with its shop in Wednesfield and then when it moved to the Ashmore Park shopping parade.

"This is sad news, but I really hope it is not the end."

The company has recent success with its produce winning a string of prices for its bread in the Malvern Bakers' Spring Fair in 2013, the Harrogate Bakers' Autumn Fair and London Bakers' Summer Fair in 2012.

A spokeswoman for the company said: "The shop in Wednesfield will be closed until further notice. It would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage."

The business was eventually sold by James William Done to his cousin Benjamin Frank Done. Benjamin passed it on to his son, also called Benjamin, who then passed it on to his own son Wallace Done. The bakery now rests with Wallace's son John Done who still continues to bake fresh quality bread and cakes.

Even though it has been the sons who have inherited the bakery it has been a full family affair with wives, siblings, cousins, aunts and uncles either serving customers, making cakes, delivering or book keeping.

The bakers is renowned for its bread and has remained popular with locals.

On the company's website are a number of testimonials from customers.

Anthony Smith wrote earlier this year: "I remember going in the Wednesfield shop as a child in the 80s, mum being served by dear Rene White with a vanilla slice treat and a milk loaf. Heart-warming to know a family business such as this is still going strong and locals keeping it this way long may the Done family continue and I wish you every success."

Alison Mitchell said: "I think your bread is absolutely wonderful and your cakes are to die for, especially the mint chocolate. I am so pleased that you come to Market Drayton market and I know that I can always order my bread from you."

And Kate Kearney added: "Great memories are linked to tastes, sounds and smells. For me, every time I smell the unique fragrance of the Done bread, I'm transported back to my childhood."