JAMES Sixsmith's bakery is celebrating 50 years in business -- and to mark the occasion he has written a book on his family's history.

He joined the business in Edenfield as a lad because his father had a delivery van and he wanted to drive it.

Although he is officially retired James helps son, Michael from time to time.

James (pictured), who is also an accomplished painter, hopes future generations of Sixsmiths will add their own entries to his family history.

He has seen many changes to the area.

"In the 1950s Edenfield had 30 shops but today there are just a handful," he said.

"But we've baked bread to the same recipe for the last 50 years and with any luck we'll still be here in another 50."