Customers at a Sandbach café were left in shock after hearing the popular eaterie is closing its doors on Saturday (January 14th).

And regulars at Gibson's Deli & Greengrocers in Sandbach have paid tribute to the hardworking staff and community spirit of the High Street business.

Gibsons' Greengrocers & Deli has supported the community with various initiatives from sponsoring a football team to launching the 'cup of kindness'   

The business is opposite St Mary's Church in High Street

But owners, Emma and Chris Gibson say their energy bill has rocketed from £400 a month to £1,000 and they can no longer afford to continue

The popular café and greengrocers, opposite St Mary's Church, is closing its doors for the final time on Saturday, making seven staff redundant.

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Rev Bee Boyde and church administrator, Anne Birch

Vicar of St Mary's Church. Rev Bee Boyde and church administrator, Anne Birch, are both gutted by the news.

Rev Boyde said: "The business has always invested back into the community. It's such a shame. It's more than a coffee shop, it's part of the community.

"It's a local hub for people and it's an example of how a business can invest in its local community and people around them."

Anne Birch says she will miss going to Gibsons' which is opposite the historic St Mary's church.

"I have enjoyed coming here and have found it a lovely place to have a coffee and chat."

In 2021, Gibsons' funded new training equipment and clothing for Sandbach United's U11s football team and last year they announced they were providing fruit at half-time for the U12 girls' team.

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Emma and husband Chris (back) with the girls' football team when they donated kit

During and after Covid, Gibsons' offered a home delivery service and was a helping hand to the local community and those who couldn't get out to shop.

Emma Gibson says she is now donating her time to the U12 girls' team following the closure of the business.

"I have volunteered to help out and provide support," said Emma whose, daughter plays for the team.  

Emma told customers: "Unfortunately, the costs into our business have increased significantly over the last year and despite making