Doe Bakehouse was flooded with support after revealing that, despite how tough things have been lately, they sold out in all nine locations over the weekend
A Yorkshire bakery owner has been inundated with messages of support after taking to social media to share a heartfelt message about how difficult it is running a small business right now.
Revealing that she has had sleepless nights, and emergency talks regarding the business and its 'crushing' energy bills, the owner of Doe Bakehouse - famed, amongst other things, for its rude-looking vulva nuts and Percy Pig creations - revealed that things have been really tough and she's had moments where she's felt they wouldn't survive the winter.
However, she went on to share a positive message - saying that "during those dark moments' she'd had to 'think quickly' and make some changes, and that it seemingly had all paid off.
Celebrating a day when the business sold out in nine different locations, she thanked customers and staff for their support as she said she hoped this would be enough to get them through.
The post, which has already been liked over 1,300 times, read:: "We sold out in all shops and markets today. Normally when packing down a market, the take down feels long and laborious, but today it felt like relief (hence the pic showing actual joy on my face).
"This week has been really tough, I've had sleepless nights, I've had emergency talks regarding the business as our energy bills have been crushing us.
"But during those dark moments I"ve had to think quickly, I've had to speak to staff about changes and things we can do better and today has proven that those tough moments in business are exactly what you need.
"My staff at the core are amazing, they work hard for the business, they put time and effort into making Doe better.
Image; Doe Bakehouse
Image; Doe Bakehouse
We are nowhere near out of the dark yet, but we are doing everything we can to produce the tastiest donuts, the best brunch (in Clitheroe) and the best coffee - We hope this basic formula will keep us going through (what looks like) a grim winter.
"Thank you to every customer who walks through the door and buys something. Selling out in 9 locations feels pretty special and gives us that extra kick to keep going."
Underneath, followers were quick to offer their support and reassurance with one person commenting: "You'll do it! We're all in this together xxx"
Another said, "Nobody does it better than you guys. I know you will make it through."
A third added: "Inspo! And this isa lso my remind to order those donuts I keep promising myself"
A fourth said: "Keep going! Sending lots of love."
Doe Bakehouse has plenty of donuts stops near Leeds, with two store in York and one in Harrogate.
It also has more the further you head north, as well as donuts available to deliver across the country via its webshop.
Eats
‘This recognition belongs to you’ – Leeds restaurant added to the Michelin Guide just months after opening
A newcomer to the Leeds foodie scene has been added to the coveted Michelin Guide.
You may remember back in April when a Leeds icon was reborn under a different name.
The Smithfield took over the site that was home to The Reliance for more than two decades, and it's safe to say it exceeded expectations.
The team transformed the site to its former glory, taking the site's exterior back to its memorable dark red. But the efforts to recapture the essence of the iconic old venue go way beyond that.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Smithfield, a collaboration between Crooked Brewing and Chef James Donovan, offers simple dining with seasonal food and natural wines.
It's the sort of place where you can rock up for a plate and a glass people watching through the huge window on North Street, or really get stuck into a sharing pie and chips with friends on a Saturday afternoon.
Either way we love it, and it seems we're not the only ones as The Smithfield has been added to the Michelin Guide just five months after opening.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Announcing the great news to Instagram, The Smithfield said: "We’re very pleased and grateful to have been included in the Michelin Guide.
"To get this kind of recognition so early in our journey is a real honour, and one we certainly don’t take for granted.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Thank you to our wonderful guests for your continued support. Also, huge thanks to our brilliant team. The Smithfield is what it is because of your hard work, enthusiasm, energy and diligence. This recognition belongs to you.
"We’re just getting started, and our focus remains the same: creating a welcoming space for our community, serving food and drink we’re proud of, championing great British and local produce, and contributing our small part towards Leeds’ brilliant hospitality scene. The Smithfield."
Iconic Betty’s Tea Room wins gold at 2026 Great British Food Awards
Clementine Hall
Betty's Tea Room has been named among the nation's best by experts.
If you live in Yorkshire, then you will know about Betty's Tea Room.
Its a real institution at this point, known for their exceptional service, exquisite food, beautiful window displays and the iconic cake trolley.
We all know their products are top tier, but they've just had even more recognition at the 2026 Great British Awards.
Announced in London, Betty's won gold for their Yorkshire Shortbread Biscuits which were judged by Cherish Finden, internationally renowned pastry chef.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Judging in the Sweet Biscuits category was led by Cherish Finden, best known as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals.
She said: "A well-made traditional shortbread with a lovely buttery flavour, balanced sweetness and a subtle touch of salt that enhances the overall taste. The delicate, crumbly texture makes it particularly pleasant to eat.
"Overall, it is a very enjoyable and satisfying shortbread. I could eat the whole packet with a cup of tea."
Gavin Johnson, head of bakery operations at Bettys Craft Bakery, said: "We are incredibly proud that our Yorkshire Shortbread has been awarded a Gold Medal at The Great British Food Awards 2026.
"This recognition reflects the enduring values of Bettys, the finest ingredients, best quality, traditional craftsmanship and a deep connection to our Yorkshire roots.
"Most importantly, the award belongs to the talented bakery team, whose skill, passion and care go into making our Yorkshire shortbread every day.
"Their commitment to excellence helps ensure that our products reflect the heritage, quality and attention to detail that customers have associated with Bettys for generations."
Georgina Pellant -
10th October 2022 
