Devastating fire at Cork’s oldest bakery

There was shock and sadness on Cork city’s northside yesterday as emergency services battled flames at the city’s oldest bakery.

Healy's Bakery on Great William O'Brien St in Blackpool went up in flames after 6am yesterday morning (Wednesday) as locals looked on in horror.

Extensive damage was done to the beloved business with firefighters taking over an hour to get the blaze under control.

A number of people in nearby properties were evacuated as a precaution due to the intensity of the flames.

A message posted on the bakery’s Facebook page read: “Our sincere apologies to everyone collecting cakes for foreseeable future. Due to fire we are closed.”

Speaking on 'The Neil Prendeville Show' on RedFM, confectioner at Healy's Bakery Rachel Healy said she was “just in shock”.

“You’ve no idea, I’m devastated, I’m absolutely devastated,” said told the show.

“We don’t know what happened. We turned up for work at 6am and we had everything prepped.

“When we came in there was smoke to greet us and the surrounding buildings were evacuated. I'm sitting outside with the fire brigade and the gardaí,” added Ms Healy.

Thankfully no one was hurt in the blaze, however, Ms Healy apologised to her customers whose orders she will be unable to fill.

She said: “I want people in Cork to know that I’m terribly sorry anybody who has cakes ordered for the weekend.

“We have had hundreds of cake orders out for this week and for the weekend and obviously I can do nothing,” added Ms Healy.

Taking to social media, local Independent Ireland TD, Ken O’Flynn said: “Listening to the radio interview of Rachel Healy, and it’s clear how deeply this tragedy impacts not just the Healy family but also their dedicated staff and countless loyal customers.

“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this loss. Healy’s Bakery has been a beloved institution, a place where generations have gathered to enjoy freshly baked goods and create lasting memories.

“We will support the family owned business and their team in any way we can during this difficult time. Let’s come together as a community to show our support and help them rebuild,” he added.

Established in 1862, Healy's Bakery is Cork family run business spanning six generations, celebrating 163 years of business this year.

Healy’s specialises in occasion cakes including Christening cakes, confirmation cakes, communion cakes, and wedding cakes.