Over Wallop bakery earns top food hygiene rating of 5

Soulcozy, run by Hannah Nicel, recently received a food hygiene rating of 5 after an inspection, a major milestone for the growing business.

Ms Nicel launched the bakery earlier this year while raising two children and helping to care for three stepchildren.

The hobby has quickly become a thriving local business, with regular customers, market and fete appearances, and products supplied to two farm shops and a café.

Ms Nicel said: “Owning my own bakery has been a dream of mine for a long time, but it was never something I imagined would become a reality quite so quickly.”

The inspection found standards were “very good” in all three areas assessed.

Bakery products from Soulcozy. (Image: Soulcozy)

Inspectors rated the bakery’s food handling, from preparation and cooking to cooling and storage, “very good”.

The facilities and building were also rated “very good” for cleanliness and condition, including their layout, ventilation, handwashing facilities and pest control.

Soulcozy’s food-safety management was also rated “very good”, with inspectors praising its safety checks and systems.

The top rating was a proud moment for Ms Nicel.

“It was a very proud moment and made the whole thing feel even more real,” she said.

Ms Nicel has built a loyal customer base by taking Soulcozy to local events and markets.

She said the community’s support had exceeded her expectations.

“What started with baking for enjoyment has gradually grown into a little local business, and it has been incredible to see how quickly people have embraced it,” she said.

Her family have also helped the bakery succeed by making deliveries and supporting her at markets.

She added: “It has been a whirlwind five months, balancing family life with growing the bakery, but I’m absolutely loving the journey and I’m excited to see where Soulcozy can go from here.”