'It's the best thing I've done for my family' - Meet Whitehaven's Mrs McCourt's Munch

Whilst most businesses were closing their doors during lockdown, 34 year old, Toni McCourt however, was just opening hers for the first time.

"During lockdown, I handed my notice in work and started my business, it absolutely took off, I was really busy in lockdown. I'd say the pandemic gave me the opportunity to start this, I don't think I'd have ever been brave enough to take the chance otherwise. 

"The business really took off from day one," he said. 

TABLE-FULL: Worth of catering available.

The home-business which specialises in tasty and indulgent cakes also caters to a meals on wheels operation for the elderly, alongside a meal prepping service for members of the Powerhouse Gym, catering to those cutting weight for bodybuilding shows. 

Toni said her new line of work allows for a more-comfortable and 'flexible' home life. 

"I get to spend more time at home with my kids and husband, although working from home makes it a bit harder to switch off, I do love it and of course, the friendships that I've developed with customers, its the best thing I've done for my family. 

"I'm all about what the customer wants, I make everything fresh as personally, I don't like frozen or packet food, if I wouldn't eat it, I wouldn't serve it, you can definitely taste the difference when things are home made and fresh. 

"Also in terms of the personal side of things, I have no staff so everything goes through myself, this gives opportunity for great one to one customer service," she said. 

SPECIALISED: Cakes made to specification.

Toni's cakes and savoury sandwiches are also available from Mossbay Premier and High Road Store or you can catch her in person at the Cockermouth Market on a Sunday. 

"I hope to get even busier in the future, I have a lot of regular customers already that I'm really thankful form, and I hope this continues to grow," she said. 

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