THE OWNER of a popular Stroud bakery has launched a crowdfunding appeal in a bid to grow his own English chocolate.

Stroud's Artisan Bakery ran by Ori Hellersein started the appeal after a joint venture with his wife, Yvonne Costello.

Ori Hellersein who will be co-owning the new Costello + Hellerstein business with his wife Yvonne Costello spoke of the need to expand.

"There has been such high demand for our chocolate truffle and fudge boxes from retailers all over

the UK," said Mr Hellerstein.

"We are quickly out-growing our premises and need to expand the space which in turn will allow us to expand our product range, but we have so many ideas for new flavours and products."

Costello + Hellerstein, the name that has been chosen for the prospective chocolatiers seek to specialise in chocolate truffles and fudge with flavours including Jamaican rum and English rose.

The chocolatey treats are sold loose by weight or are packaged at the Stroud Farmers’ Market every Saturday

They are looking to raise £40,000 in order to expand their production kitchen into new premises and increase the product range.

To donate to the bakery's crowdfunding page visit crowdfunder.co.uk/costello-hellerstein