A baker who has been sharing his freshly-made pastries, bread cakes and more at the family bakery for six years has announced it will close for good. Sebastian Clough announced that On The Breadline, based at Hillcrest Farm in Four Oaks, will shut on December 24. Sebastian shared the sad news in an emotional post to customers, thanking them for the 'unforgettable moments' and support.
The Sutton Coldfield bakery shares produce from a garden shed in the grounds of the farm. The baker, who opened On The Breadline in 2018 after studying at University College Birmingham , has been challenged by health issues in recent years. He cited them, along with rising costs and declining footfall, among the reasons for the closure.
Read more: Much-loved Birmingham restaurant closes as bosses say business is 'no longer viable' Subscribe to our Brum Food Club food and drink newsletter for the latest news from our hospitality scene every Thursday. Sebastian said: "It is with a heavy heart and a flood of emotions that I share the news that On The Breadline Bakery will be closing its doors permanently on Christmas Eve. After an incredible six years, filled with unforgettable moments, this decision has not come easily.
It feels like closing a cherished chapter of my life - a chapter that has shaped me in ways I never imagined. "These past six years have been more than just a business, they have been a beautiful journey of self-discovery, passion and community. From the first loaf of sourdough I baked to the joy of seeing your smiles as you savoured my cakes, pastries, tarts and sandwiches, each moment has been a treasure, especially seeing so many amazing reviews, comments and even when people come in to say they have enjoyed my products.
"You, my amazing customers, have been the heartbeat of On The Breadline, filling my days with warmth and joy. I will always remember you as the On The Breadline family." On The Breadline is at Hillcrest Farm (Image: Kirsty Bosley) Sebastian added that it has become difficult to 'keep the spirit' of the 'beloved' bakery alive.
For the past two years, the family has been seeking planning permission to build a permanent cafe but the initial application was denied. The baker said: "The relentless rise in ingredient costs and bills has added to the strain. I've always strived to provide the highest quality at an affordable price but this has become increasingly difficult.
Since COVID , we've faced a decline in foot traffic and it's been a challenge to keep the spirit of our beloved bakery alive. "Unfortunately, my health has to become a priority as I've been told there will be no real improvements as long as I'm a baker as I spend most of my time on my legs and will continue to suffer with swelling, pain and heaviness. The pain and heaviness in my leg sometimes becomes overwhelming especially when it's been a long day.
"I think with so many different things going on with my health, pricing, bills, foot traffic decreasing, this is why I have chosen to close the bakery." Sebastian added that On The Breadline would continue to trade from 9am until 2pm every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday until December 24. He said: "As we approach our final months, I want to celebrate with you all with delicious memories.
I would love to see your smiling faces around the bakery and share my baked delights with you. "Thank you for being a vital part of my journey. Your support, kindness and love have meant the world to me and I will carry each memory with me always from the first day of opening to my Halloween night and to my final day of opening.
"Let's make these months count, filled with freshly baked sourdough, cakes, pastries plus our delicious hot and cold sandwiches. Thank you, Sebastian.".
