Deli celebrates 15 years of serving tasty treats to people of Swindon

A popular high street deli celebrated its 15th birthday over the bank holiday weekend.

Bloomfields Fine Food has been a fixture of Highworth's town centre since it branched out from its Shrivenham sibling in 2009.

Sue Belcher founded the business and helped staff serve homemade cakes, pastries and takeaway coffee at the deli's front counter in the early days.

A building renovation in 2018 created space for tables and chairs to be set up so customers could pop in for breakfast and lunch while enjoying views of the market square while still retaining the delicatessen area.

Husband Tim said: "The whole business is down to Sue, she had the vision and the dream, she started this as a single mum in a challenging situation and is an inspiration to other women.

"This business would not survive without her. It's a testament to her tenacity and skill as a businesswoman.

"We always wanted to expand it into a cafe so the renovation added another string to our bow."

Over the May bank holiday, the team set up a stall outside the deli selling their wares and spreading the word about this milestone anniversary.

Bloomfields supports more than 30 local producers by selling their bread, fruit, vegetables, cheeses, honey, spirits, beer, and Portuguese tarts.

Tim said: "It was an incredible day and a great success for everyone involved. People couldn't believe we'd been there for so long and it was nice to be appreciated.

"It's a tough environment for traders at the moment so we are honoured that people have kept with us.

"It's never been easy, we've had ups and downs, but it's great that we can maintain our independent status in the heart of Highworth.

"We have slowly built up the business through the support of our customers and our fantastic staff.

"We would like to thank them for supporting us and other local businesses in the area."

As for the future, Tim and Sue are considering making more homemade produce, seeking out more local producers and suppliers, and expanding the hamper delivery side of the business.

Tim added: "Over the years, we have gone from strength to strength because of the pride we take in the service that we provide and the quality of the food and drink we serve.

"Customers really value this service and quality and are willing to pay for it."