THERE haven’t been many good things to come out of the coronavirus lockdown, but it did inspire one local family to embark on a new business venture.
Mum-of-three Nina Sloan opened the doors to her café – Nina’s Tea 4 You – on Innerleithen's High Street last week.
After hosting a VE Day afternoon tea for her neighbours in lockdown, and delivering treats to friends, Nina was encouraged to go one step further.
Her daughter Rebecca said she noticed a spark in her mum after the celebrations.
“The neighbours loved it and it made my mum so happy,” Rebecca told the Peeblesshire News.
“Myself and my partner Callum Bruce suggested to her that she should start delivering afternoon teas throughout the area.
“We set up a Facebook page and it went from strength to strength.
“My mum has always been a keen baker and loves to cook. She was in her element which helped her mental health as it was low at the time.”
With business booming, the family decided to expand.
“Innerleithen was our choice due to bikers and location,” said Rebecca. “When we viewed the shop it was a shell and had been empty for 10 years. We used our savings to get the essential work done.”
^ Nina Sloan, Callum Bruce and Rebecca outside their new premises. Photo: Helen Barrington
Nina has been welcoming customers into the café since opening more than a week ago, with assistance from her mum Susan Mckirgan, Rebecca and Callum.
Proud daughter Rebecca says her mum is amazing. “She’s a student nurse in her final year and also works for an agency providing 24-hour care to a lady in her home.
“She works hard juggling studying, work, the café and family. My dad works full-time so it’s all down to mum.”
On the menu are afternoon teas, breakfast rolls and various hot wholesome meals.
Rebecca added: “Mum also makes the most delicious cakes, with special occasion cakes made to order.
“We cater for vegetarians and also those with specific dietary requirements.”
The new café is going down a treat with residents, according to Rebecca.
“We’ve been busy since we opened and sell out most days.
“The locals have been very welcoming and on numerous occasions they’ve said it’s just the place Innerleithen needs.”
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