A WOMAN who worked in a Cockermouth cafe for four years and has many memories of happy times there with her late mother is now running the show.
Julie Southward is the new owner of The Squirrel's Pantry, next to Oakhurst Garden Centre, on Lamplugh Road.
And she's delighted to be at the helm, supported by a great team.
"I couldn't be happier," said Julie.
"I worked here for four years. I was in the kitchen part-time and also waitressing.
"I got furloughed last May, the cafe was then closed in July and I was made redundant.
"Another person then came to run it so I came back to work in the kitchen four days a week.
"When there was another lockdown she also moved on."
Julie, who lives in Harrington, had some time off over Christmas and realised how much the place meant to her.
"I love the place, it has so many memories for me.
"I used to bring my mum here every week. We lost her 11 years ago," she said.
"I got in touch with the owner of the premises, asking if I could take them on.
"It's the best decision I ever made.
"Since we opened a few weeks ago all my old customers have been coming back. It's lovely to see them."
Julie's husband, Will, was a huge help in sorting out the venue, which has a spacious outdoor and indoor area.
"We've uncovered a lovely fire and painted it. We also upcycled lots of chairs," said Julie.
"Will has been brilliant, he's done everything."
She's offering homemade cakes, scones, breakfasts, light lunches and afternoon teas.
"I want it as a traditional tearoom and am so pleased with how it looks.
"It's just good home cooking using locally sourced produce."
Julie has three staff, Tracy Maddocks, Anne Tait and Marcia Smith.
They have all enjoyed welcoming customers.
"The response has been absolutely amazing, I'm overwhelmend. Customers have come in with cards and flowers, it's lovely," said Julie.
The tea room, which is surrounded by greenery, used to be a green house.
"They used to grow orchids here to sell at the garden centre.
"The kitchen was the boiler room," said Julie.
And the tearoom is living up to its name.
"I just love the name, it epitomises this place.
"Red squirrels feed on the feeders and there are lots of birds," said Julie.
The tearoom is open every day except Monday.
