The owners of an independent Winchester café, Rawberry, have announced that they will be closing their doors for good.
The café, whose vegetarian menu and fresh juices have set them apart during their time in Winchester, had humble beginnings as a juice stall in 2014 before opening as pop-up bar in the Brooks Centre.
They found a permanent home in St George's Street in 2016, and it was very much a family affair.
Husband and wife, Warren and Cheryl Scarr, got their children involved as they set out to be a fresh, healthier alternative for the people of Winchester.
The company allowed artists to use their space to display their work, having an entirely vegetarian menu, and being able to adapt to most dietary requirements.
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Warren and Cheryl said that they’ve decided it’s the right time for them to finish their journey with Rawberry, and though it’s bittersweet it is something they wanted to do on their own terms.
Warren said: “We’re very proud of what we’ve achieved. We’ve had some fabulous customers over the years.”
The family affirm that they are moving on for positive reasons, as they prepare to welcome a new member of the family, and their daughter is set to start a new career.
They were met with an outpouring of support as they announced their closure via Instagram.
Many loyal customers displayed sadness at the news.
Local student Beck Minta, 22, said “I’m really sad to hear that Rawberry are closing. The staff are always so welcoming, and the food is amazing. I will really miss their super smoothies.”
Looking forward, Cheryl said that their future plans include travelling "anywhere and everywhere."
They are set to keep serving customers until they close around the end of March, with their exact final day of business to come at a later date.
A new café, whose identity has not been revealed, is set to move into the space, with what the Rawberry team say will be a 'very different offering.'
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