CUSTOMERS visiting the Stables Café, in Barnard Castle, were treated to slices of birthday cake as part of the popular eatery’s 30th anniversary celebrations.
The café was opened by Phyllis Stoddart on October 22, 1991, and operated for 29 years from a converted stable at the rear of the Hayloft shop, on Horsemarket.
During the pandemic the business – now run by Mrs Stoddart’s daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter, Sheena and Stephen Aldred, and Nicola Stephenson – continued to serve customers, delivering meals to their homes.
When restrictions were lifted, fears over the lack of social distancing led to the cafe relocating just across the road in what was previously the YMCA shop.
To mark the milestone, staff whipped up a celebratory cake, handing out slices to customers throughout the day.
Mrs Stoddart, now 82, returned to help out for the anniversary.
Mr Aldred said: “Never in a million years did I imagine that it [Stables] would still be going after all this time.
“We’re all really grateful to our customers for the continued support.
“We have come out the other side of some of the worst times for hospitality and we’re delighted to still be welcoming customers through our doors.”
Mrs Stoddart said: “I remember when I opened the café someone said to me it would be a flash in the pan, but it’s still here and better than ever.”
