Hawkchurch family open new seaside business

The coronavirus pandemic has proved a challenging time for businesses, but that hasn't stopped the Attrill family from Hawkchurch, near Axminster, opening a new seaside café.

Melanie Attrill, who has 30 years experience in the catering business, and her family have opened Kiosk on Lyme Regis seafront.

Before the coronavirus outbreak, the family had hoped to open their new venture in time for the Easter holidays. But with lockdown measures still in place, they were eventually able to open as a takeaway only earlier this month.

Commenting on her decision to open Kiosk, Melanie said: "I had seen the space before and thought it could be livened up a bit. I wanted to do something I could really enjoy, working with people again and it's in such an amazing location."

Melanie's new venture will be run as a family business, with help from her daughters Emily and Daisy, but they will be recruiting for new staff when lockdown restrictions are lifted.

Kiosk is currently serving food and drink to takeaway in line with all government guidelines. They serve the Fairtrade and organic Honduran coffee with a range of milks available, as well as homemade cakes, ice creams breakfast bagels, lunchtime toasties and sandwiches, including their popular crab sandwiches.

All of the ingredients used are locally-sourced where possible and Kiosk caters for a range of dietary requirements, including vegan and dairy free.

Melanie said it has been challenging opening a new business during the coronavirus pandemic, but it has allowed them a chance to overcome teething problems and get to grips with current restrictions without the mad rush of the usual summer season.

"It's been great to have the chance to introduce ourselves to Lyme Regis residents and we have had lots of support from both our customers and other local businesses," she added.

Kiosk will be open every day throughout the summer period, weather depending, and is currently offering discounts for NHS key workers and lifeboat crew members.

You can find out more by following 'kiosk_lymeregis' on Instagram.