It’s brew time at the new Salvation Army cafe in Crewe

The kettle was on the boil all morning for the launch of a new-look community cafe and shop at The Salvation Army on Prince Albert Street, Crewe.

A good crowd turned out for the opening of the facility which now has a dedicated entrance & visibility onto the street.

They were joined by Crewe Mayor Cllr Sally Graham and Deputy Cllr Stuart Mackay.

The cafe, led by volunteers, is open every morning 10am to 1pm except Thursday and Sunday. There’s tea, coffee, biscuits and cake and bacon baps on Fridays.

The shop is open the same days til 3pm.

Community engagement coordinator Shona Gladwyn said: “We’re thrilled at the interest and turnout. There’s always been a cafe but just tucked away and now with a dedicated entrance we hope to welcome many more local people.”

The charity shop sells clothing, linen, books, DVD’s and CD’s and games as well as shoes and handbags in order to recycle and reuse rather than see things thrown away – the Salvation Army sees environmental impact as part of its mission.

Shona added: “The charity shop and cafe help us to continue supporting the local community by offering a warm space with a listening ear, and also help to fund our weekly drop in and clothing bank for those who are homeless and vulnerable in the local community as well as funds our weekly food bank and our annual Christmas toy appeal which supported 2655 children and adults in the Crewe community this year.

“The refurbishment began in October. Funding for was agreed with our divisional team, but we had a huge amount of support in terms of materials and time from Kier (currently building the new archives) and their subcontractors McCrory Holdings for the enabling work, and SAL for the replastering.”

Volunteers help sort donations, serve on the till and stock the shop, also in the cafe serving, baking cakes, and offering a welcoming environment to all who come in as well the charity drop in and food bank.

Money raised goes towards the Salvation Army’s charity work in Crewe.

Volunteers are welcome. They just need to commit to two hours per week.