From offender to baking success – Francesca Barker’s story makes it onto national TV

Francesca Barker being filmed for ITV's Real Stories

Ex-offender Francesca Barker, who turned her life around by opening her own bakers shop, was on the ITV programme, Real Stories with Ranvir Singh, on Thursday (21 July) evening.

The series focuses on extraordinary life stories and came to Littleborough to document Ms Barker's story from drug addiction to being a successful businesswoman. 

Ms Barker, who was once facing a prison sentence after her life spiralled out of control, openly admits she was an addict. She overcame her addiction and channelled her energy into something she loves – baking bread.

After the show, Francesca told Rochdale Online: “Following my little stint on ITV last night, the community has been incredible.

“I spoke about things that I haven’t been particularly public about and they have rallied around me so and I’ve had people in all day talking to me, hugging me, sharing their stories and so on. One man even popped in and gave me some flowers to show his support. Littleborough is an incredible place.”

Ms Barker opened The Barker Baker in Littleborough last year, and has since opened a second shop in Affleck’s Palace in Manchester.