Most birthdays are celebrated with cake and The Lane Bakery is no exception.

The independent Deal-based business, owned by Anna Murray and Chris Vidler, will be marking its first birthday on Saturday with giveaways, games and free gold balloons.

It is a thank you to their sweet-toothed customers who’ve supported them throughout their first 12 months.

Ms Murray, who heads up the team of four bakers and two front of house staff, said: “We just want to say thank you to all of our customers.

“The first few months were a bit daunting, not helped by a heatwave straight after our opening which caused some of the cakes to start melting.

“But we’ve overcome obstacles and it’s been great.

“Without the support, we wouldn’t have been able to achieve this.”

The team whips up an average of 400 cupcakes a week as well as large cakes - at least 20 of which are ordered for private celebrations.

The impressive creations feature a range of toppings from whole chocolate bars and fruit to fizzy laces and flowers.

And then there’s seasonal boxes made up for occasions like Valentines Day and Mother’s Day.

The bakery is the couple’s second business together, accompanying The Lane bar and restaurant in South Court which opened in 2014.

Thanks to social media and positive customers feedback, they’ve built a brand which is recognised around Kent - with a stream of regular customers who travel from outside of the town to get their sweet fix.

Mr Vidler added: “It’s the smiles on people’s faces and the comments we hear that make it so rewarding.”

The Lane Bakery has also branched out into the world of wedding cakes and while they plan to stick to the sweet side of baking, a savoury cheese and Marmite sausage roll has slipped onto the shelf.

Their best seller, they say, has been the rainbow sponge cake (pictured) which Miss Murray says frequently catches the attention of children.

"You should see the kid's eyes. I think they must think it's like Willy Wonka's Factory when they walk in," she said.

Frozen yoghurt FWIPs have also been popular along with the mini cheesecakes and kinder cookie bars.

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