Mum's memory is inspiration for Blackpool cafe

Shelley and Christopher Brown have opened the café on Church Street as they had been inspired by an inheritance from Shelley’s mum, Rhona.

The entrepreneurs decided to name the café after Rhona to honour her memory and have even decorated with a purple colour scheme – Rhona’s favourite colour.

Rhona’s Griddle is now up and running with Christopher making all the food from scratch.

The couple, who are originally from North Wales, serve family meals, snacks and takeaway dishes and the couple got a hand setting up their business by, Blackpool Council’s Get Started service.

Shelley said: “My mum had battled cancer and got the all-clear, only to find out a few weeks later that it would be terminal. She was determined to fight and even managed to give me away at our wedding.

“Her final wish was to leave us a little monetary gift to help us move forward and make a future for our family.

“We decided a big change was due and we looked for ideas for a business.

“Christopher and I have both worked in the catering and services industries so we decided a café would be perfect.

“We chose Blackpool as we have many happy childhood memories from this town.

“We are very pleased with what we have achieved so far and we are sure that mum would be proud.”

Coun Mark Smith, Blackpool Council’s Cabinet Member for Business and Economic Development, said: “It’s fantastic to see another business get started and continue to receive ongoing support to develop their business thanks to our professional help.

“It’s particularly heart-warming that after such a tough time, Shelley and her husband Christopher have been inspired by Rhona’s legacy to move to Blackpool and set up a new business.

“Currently 90 per cent of the businesses that Get Started has helped in the last two years are still operating and in some cases, doing very well indeed. That’s because businesses can still benefit from our expert advice and support even after they are up and running.”

Rhona’s Griddle is open 6am to 5pm Monday-Friday, and 6am to 2pm on Saturday. Outside catering is also available for parties.