A CAFÉ has suddenly closed its doors after three and a half years as new owners prepare to move in.

Café 83, on Poole Road in Westbourne, announced the closure on November 18 saying the decision was made with a ‘heavy heart’.

Owner, Rebecca Greig, previously worked in publishing as an editor and said when Covid hit, she missed face to face interactions with people.

(Image: Rebecca Greig)

“I’m originally from Edinburgh so my family aren’t here,” said Rebecca.

“When the office closed I felt quite lonely living alone.

“I volunteered at the vaccine centre in the BIC and realised how much I missed face to face interactions.”

Rebecca said she had “always dreamed” of opening a café to sell her homemade bakes, and when the unit came up for sale it was the perfect time.

She added that she loves Westbourne, and that the community has been “amazing”.

“I had so many regular and very loyal customers that came in every day for a chat.

“One customer even had her own button on the till.

“I was always surprised at how many regulars I had and just how positive the response for the coffee we sold and my cakes and brownies.

“I’ll really miss sharing my baking with everyone.

“I loved that it put a smile on people’s faces.”

(Image: Rebecca Greig)

However, after three and a half years Rebecca said the time felt right to move closer to her partner in London and return to her original career.

“It felt the right time to start an adventure together.

“As much as I love the café and hospitality, I have also missed journalism so am keen to get back to that.”

Rebecca said that the new owners have “exciting plans” plans for the site in the coming weeks.

“I don’t have much information about the new owners plans but I think it is going to be something new and a bit different for Westbourne, and an exciting new venture for the new owners.”

She added that she will miss Westbourne ‘with all her heart’ but wishes the new owners good luck.