A POPULAR CANALSIDE CAFÉ is staging two community events this winter.
As it continues to welcome customers despite the ongoing closure of the Llangollen Canal.
Lockside Café, at Grindley Brook, on the edge of Whitchurch, tells its latest events will help bring a challenging year to an end with the same community spirit which has helped it survive the loss of much of its passing trade.
Jane Beaumont, who runs the café with her son and daughter Chris and Rachel Burtonwood, said the events were designed to bring together walkers, local residents and visitors while supporting independent traders and the
community. Chris and Jane pictured.
Walkers' Get Together
The first event, a Walkers' Get Together, will take place on 13th November and is open to everyone, from experienced ramblers to those who simply enjoy a gentle stroll in the countryside.
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet fellow walkers, share ideas for local routes and enjoy conversation over tea, coffee and homemade cake.
Four-legged friends are also welcome, with muddy boots and paws encouraged after a day exploring the area.
Jane explained:
“Our Walkers' Get Together is a chance to meet like-minded people and enjoy some good company and a good natter over a cuppa and cake. What could be better in the middle of November?”
Festive market
The café will then host a Festive Market on December 6 from 10am to 2.30pm, featuring a range of local stallholders offering gifts, crafts and seasonal products. Jane said the event would help give shoppers the chance to support local businesses while finding unique Christmas presents.
The events come during a difficult period for businesses along the canal corridor following the closure of the Llangollen Canal, which has affected boat traffic and reduced visitor numbers in the area.
Despite those challenges, Lockside Café has continued to welcome customers and is keen to create reasons for people to visit Grindley Brook throughout the winter months, with Jane telling:
A big impact
"The canal closure has undoubtedly had a big impact on businesses that rely on visitors to the area, but we have been incredibly grateful for the support we've received from local people and regular customers.
"We want everyone to know that we're very much open for business and we'd love to welcome both familiar faces and new visitors through our doors over the coming months."
Lockside Cafe is located at Grindley Brook, Whitchurch, Shropshire, SY13 4QH,
and is open daily from 9am to 4pm.