Popular hospice cafe to close after 15 years

The Dove Cottage Day Hospice tea room sits on the banks of the Grantham Canal

A hospice has closed a popular tea room due to financial constraints after running it for 15 years.

The well-used cafe was operated by Dove Cottage Day Hospice on the banks of the Grantham Canal near the village of Stathern, Leicestershire.

But the rising costs, limited indoor seating and a decline in customers meant it had become less profitable, the hospice said.

The charity's trustees therefore took the decision to close the Canal Lane cafe and concentrate resources into providing care.

The charity shop will remain open despite the tea room closing

Dan Smeeton, chief executive of the day hospice, said: "Over the years we've had incredible support from our amazing volunteers and staff in the tea room and have received such wonderful support from our loyal customers."

But she continued that "our priority will always be the care and support we provide to those who rely on us the most".

Despite the closure of the tea room, the charity shop, which is based upstairs, will remain open along with the other charity shops in Bottesford, Cotgrave and Asfordby.

Ms Smeeton added: "We encourage anyone who can to continue supporting us so that we can keep providing the services that make such a difference in people's lives."