Raising hundreds and thousands (From Crewe Guardian)

Swirly Whirlys opens in Pillory Street, Nantwich

4:20pm Sunday 21st October 2012 in News

A GUILT-FREE crêperie, ice cream parlour and traditional sweet shop has opened in Nantwich.

The goodies at Swirly Whirlys, in Pillory Street, may well contain the same amount of calories as other treats but these are all in a good cause as the shop is a fundraiser for St Luke’s (Cheshire) Hospice.

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson cut the ribbon at the official opening alongside town councillor and life-long St Luke’s supporter Norma Simpson.

He said: “I’m sure so many of you here today have a personal connection to St Luke’s or know someone who has.

“We’re so very fortunate to have St Luke’s right on our doorstep.

“I have visited the staff and families and the comfort and professional resources given to those in deep need of security and care is inspiring.

“To open a new shop nowadays you have to be creative, and I think this wonderfully playful shop will bring the inner child out in every adult.

“This store is a great addition to our high street and a wonderful opportunity for local people to show their support.”

The historic three-storey building has been transformed into a luxurious craft cafe aimed at families and incorporating a crêperie, ice cream parlour, café area, old fashioned sweet shop, craft floor and children’s party area.

Andrea Ladeira, St Luke’s commercial director, came up with the idea three years ago.

She said: “To see this become a reality is an amazing feeling and it would not have been possible without the determination, dedication and sheer hard work of all the St Luke’s staff and volunteers.

“Their tireless efforts over the years, and especially during the past months, to make this opening possible reflect the amazing spirit we have at St Luke’s.”

More than £6,200 a day is needed for St Luke’s Cheshire Hospice to open its doors every day, and the majority of that money is found through fundraising and donations.