A FAMILY-RUN business from Gwynedd with over a century of history recently scooped the Bakery Product of the Year prize at the inaugural Co-op Welsh Supplier Awards.

Popty Bakery, based in Llanllechid on the outskirts of Bethesda, received the award for its traditional bara brith fruit cake.

Marian Williams, who co-owns the company with husband Gwyn, said: "Over the years, our business has seen growth from the early days of direct supply to residential customers, to a wholesale supplier of shops, retailers and caterers across Wales.

"We are so proud to have been recognised like this."

At the beginning of the 1900’s, O.J. Williams opened the small bakery in the hills of Llanllechid. The business was passed on from O.J. to his son Arthur who later sold it to his nephew and then to current co-owner Gwyn.

The company is now the second largest producer of Welsh Cakes in Wales and was awarded the Wholesaler of the Year award from the Food Awards Wales judges in 2018.

Some of its biggest customers include supermarket giants Tesco, Asda and Morrisons.

The first ever Co-op Welsh Supplier Awards was hosted by Welsh TV and Radio Presenter, Jason Mohammad – and with Anglesey-based Chef and Great British Menu 2018 finalist Ellis Barrie among the judging panel, it celebrated a feast of Welsh produce.

The Co-op – which marks its 175th anniversary this year – stocks over 500 Welsh products, from beer to bakery products and, curry to ice cream.