THE business partner of James Sommerin is set to open a bakery next door to the chef's Michelin-starred restaurant.

Richard Hayward - the owner of the Beachcliff buildings - says he plans to open the "best bakery in the UK" and is looking to hire local people, who can demonstrate "commitment and talent".

Mr Hayward said: "I want local people in this community to be involved in this great project.

"It doesn't matter if you have no experience of running a bakery, but as long as you have an ambition that's what I'll be looking for.

"If you have the determination and are talented, we want you."

The planned bakery, which the 65-year-old describes as "unique", will sell a range of items, including pizzas and artisan bread, and will also have a cafe for people to relax.

Mr Hayward, director of Richard Hayward Properties, believes it will be "a great success".

"We're going to make this a success, just like we did at James Sommerin restaurant," he added.

"Our ultimate aim is for it to be the best in the UK and believe we can do this.

"We got there with James Sommerin through sheer hard work.

"We will fight our way until we reach that end goal.

"It will be all things and will serve all people."

Pascal Fleurette, from France, will serve in the bakery.

The pastry chef said: "It is very exciting, not just for us, but for Penarth.

"If the bakery does take off, which I think will, it will be a great opportunity for this area.

"A successful bakery will bring it people and help boost the local economy."

The 54-year-old added: "There will be lots of things on offer that can't be easily found elsewhere, like artisan bread."

The bakery's opening is planned for February 2017.