Thousands seek support after Bake a Cake boss says sorry

Hundreds more couples affected by Halesowen-based Bake a Cake Catering shutting down have emerged in the last few days.

It comes as more than 2,500 people have joined a Facebook group for those affected by the closure of the business.

But firm owner, Lisa Holt, has claimed in reports that she had had a series of personal and business problems which have affected Bake a Cake.

She also claimed that the business had been attacked by a 'hate campaign' on Facebook.

Speaking to reporters she said: "I'm sorry. If I could change it I would.

"I have tried so hard for so long and delivered for so long that I just can't change it now."

She added: "I am very sorry this has happened and I am trying to rectify the situation at present and would prefer to pay people back and not force insolvency."

Bake a Cake announced on Facebook on Monday it was closing down and as a result would not be able to honour orders that have been booked in.

A message on the site said the firm had been hit by a burglary and arson attack and could no longer continue to trade.

The company provided catering, photo booths, decorations and LED lighting for celebrations.

Miss Holt added: "After constant outsourcing to meet clients bookings and the fact that I was competitively priced made me unable to trade any longer.

"I informed Dudley Trading Standards myself and I also notified the police myself.

"They may investigate me for fraud and my business dealings but I have no lavish life and my parents have even been ploughing-in money. This can be verified as well."

One couple affected were Matt and Jemma Cooper, who were married at Priory Park, but were hit by Bake A Cake's closure.

In a message on Bake A Cake's Facebook site, Owner Lisa Holt apologised 'for the inconvenience and stress' her announcement caused.

'We simply cannot afford to keep trading' the message on the Facebook page said.

She said she would provide an update about refunds later in the week, but their Facebook page would be closed down 'to reduce the amount of harassment we are experiencing'.

Dudley Council's trading standards team has been contacted about the matter. No-one was available for comment but the issue was being investigated.

Meanwhile more than a dozen firms have now come forward offering support and discounts for brides and grooms-to-be affected by the sudden closure.

Dudley councillor Rachel Harris, who oversees trading standards, said: "We have received a number of complaints relating to Bake a Cake Catering and are currently investigating the matter.

"We advise anyone who would like to make a complaint about this or any other trading standards issue to contact Citizens Advice on 03454 040506."