Readers express disappointment as Caffi Florence set to close
The cafe has been based at the park, between Ruthin and Mold, for more than a decade.
It was taken over by the staff in 2014 and initially became a workers cooperative. Over the years, as staff left to pastures new, the running of the business became the primary responsibility of Nicola Price-Rohan, the front of hose manager and Catherine Metcalfe, who is head chef.
The pair have been running the business as a partnership since June 2017 and even managed to retain all their staff through the Covid pandemic and refurbished for a re-opening.
But, there was disappointment for visitors recently when the team confirmed that Caffi Florence would be closing for good as of August 31.
Speaking to The Leader, Nicola cited a dispute with Denbighshire County Council as the main issue.
She said that work to improve flood defences and renovated dated buildings, would have seen a significant rent increase for them.
She added that the cafe's regular customers, and their dogs 'have been the backbone' of the business over the years.
In response, Denbighshire Council said it was 'disappointed with the outcome'.
Also left disappointed are our readers who have been contacting us to share their views on the Cafe's imminent closure.
Norma Sommerville said: "Outrageous! Will be missed by many families. Walkers young and old should be encouraged."
Christine Vandelden added: "It's needed there for people to enjoy a day out."
Sonia Williams said: "Oh that's such a shame. We always have an ice-cream on our walk."
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Eirlys Hollinshead told us: "This is so sad, grew up in Gwernymynydd. Has been there as long as I can remember, I worked on a Saturday there and all the children from Colymendy use to come. It will be sadly missed."
Dianne Edwards said: "So sorry to hear this Nikki, you and your staff have worked so hard over the years, you will all be missed."
Helen Doyle said: "So sad. You will be missed by many dogs and humans alike."
Tracy McDowell said: "Without the cafe and the lovely staff that work there, it wouldn't be the park that has become so well loved today. The families, dog walkers, school parties, elderly, have all called in the lovely cafe over the years and returned over and over.
"Over 30 years, I have shared it with my family, young and old . From the first meeting of my husband's large family, to kid's parties, family get together in the summer , afternoon tea's to hot chocolate and a sandwich in the winter. Thank you to everyone at Caffi Florence. You will be missed."
Gillian Prestwich said: "What a great shame, it is always so busy."
Annie Lloyd added: "Very disappointed. Small businesses should be encouraged to thrive in the area, especially when they have a proven track record."
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