Thanks to the help of volunteers, St Austell Community Hospital’s coffee shop is open once again, following its closure in 2020 due to the covid-19 pandemic.  

A shortage of volunteers delayed its reopening, but a successful appeal for hands on deck has resulted in the popular café being back up and running. 

Matron Margaret West, who presided over the official reopened ceremony, said: “The café has always been a little gem and when it closed was hugely missed by patients, visitors, and staff, and it is great that it is buzzing again.  

“This would not have been possible without the commitment and support of our dedicated volunteers.” 

Volunteers help to support the hospital by providing drinks, snacks and a reassuring smile to patients and those who are visiting.  Jan Jago and Christine Clemes are both helping at the coffee shop. 

“The reason we are volunteers is because we enjoy the social aspect,” said Jan.  “We feel that we are giving our time as a service to people who visit for one reason or another,” added Christine. 

• If you are interested in joining the team, contact Volunteers In Partnership on 01726 873253/873255 or by emailing [email protected]