Cafes put back on menu after covid concerns

The Almond Tree cafe at 71 High Street did not trade on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday as a precautionary measure after one of its staff members reported displaying symptoms.

When a negative test came back the premises was able to reopen on Saturday.

The news was a huge relief for staff and regulars at the popular community cafe, a registered charity which helps young people find jobs and training opportunities.

Its manager, Morag Paxton, said: “We closed as a precaution and did exactly what we were told to do by NHS Track and Trace. The test came back negative so we were able to open again. It was a challenge and I would like to thank everyone for the lovely messages of support and encouragement we received.”

Another venue which closed its doors was the Blackhorse bistro in the town’s Oliver Place.

The venue was contacted by NHS Track and Trace and told that someone who had been in the cafe had tested positive.

After a thorough cleansing of the premises it reopened on Monday, November 2.

A spokesperson said: “We were advised to close the shop for 24 hours and carry out a deep clean. We have also contacted Track and Trace contacts. Unfortunately, some of the numbers we were given weren’t real. So please, if you were in our cafe from Friday after 1.15pm or anytime on Saturday, contact them asap.”