Renowned Walkden community café ‘Hug in a Mug’ set to open grab and go version ‘Cuddle in a Cup’ within the Walkden Town Centre.
Proud owners, Karen and Ed Gardiner have had ‘Hug in a Mug’ for over six and a half years and have become well established within the area.
They have both always wanted to open a mini version of the community café.
Karen said: “Everybody has been asking if we’re closing, the answer is no! We want to get it across that this is ‘Cuddle in a Cup’ and it is an extension of ‘Hug in a Mug’.”
Since the Tesco superstore opened in Walkden, the stalls within the Market have taken a beating, leaving the Centre nearly empty.
Which is exactly why Karen and Ed chose the Walkden Town Centre. In hope of bringing that community atmosphere back again.
Karen said: “It desperately needs regenerating.
“It might even encourage other people to use the stalls in there.”
Karen continued: “Some people have already asked us about information on how to get a stall.
“If we can do it then anyone can.”
‘Cuddle in a Cup’ is set to open towards the end of October and will still be serving the customers usual favorites.
Karen said: “We’ll be serving our luxurious coffee.
“It’s all going to be fast food, like pies and soup, cakes and things like that. Even Slushies!
“Although we will have some tables in, we aren’t going to be encouraging people to stay all day.
“I think we’ll be alright, there’s no one like us over there at the moment.”
After making the announcement to open ‘Cuddle in a Cup’ on their Facebook page, Karen and Ed were overwhelmed with the response.
Karen said: “The overall feedback has been fantastic, its already reached over 10,000 people.
“I think a lot of our own customers will support us.
“It doesn’t matter whether they come over here or go there, it’s all support to us.”
Bringing back the festive cheer again this Christmas ‘Hug in a Mug’ is also hosting Santa’s Grotto, which used to be held in the Walkden Town Centre, before Covid.
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