BAILIFFS have cleared out one of Colchester’s last independent bakers.

When Kathleen’s Kitchen, in Long Wyre Street, shut last month, a notice in the window said the oven had broken and the bakery would be open again soon.

Baliffs, working for landlords Roger and Alison Hance, entered the premises yesterday and seized all goods.

Mr and Mrs Hance ran the business for more than 30 years.

They instructed the bailiffs for non-payment of rent for “some months”.

Dedham-based Duport Bakery, which took over two years ago when Mr and Mrs Hance retired, has been warned any attempt to get into the premises could constitute a criminal offence.

Long-standing customers said they were be sad to see the shop go.

For the full report, see Wednesday's Gazette