Rowcroft Hospice is set to launch a new business initiative in the form of a restored vintage 1973 Citroen H Van, which will be serving up tasty treats and refreshing hot and cold drinks at this year’s Royal Regatta.
The new business is called Ella’s Mobile Cafe and all proceeds will go toward funding vital patient care for people living with life-limiting illnesses in South Devon.
“Ella’s” will be located on the South Embankment near the junction with Oxford St from Wednesday 28 – Saturday 31 between 10am – 6pm.
Rowcroft Hospice’s Head of Retail, Caroline Wannell, said: “I’m delighted that we are officially launching our newest retail concept, Ella’s Mobile Café, at the Dartmouth Royal Regatta. The local community support for our Dartmouth Boutique shop and from all those who play our lottery, donate and participate in our fundraising events enables us to continue to provide outstanding end of life care to patients across Dartmouth. Ella’s Mobile Café is designed to help support our outstanding care even further so we can extent our services to reach one in every two adults living with life-limiting illnesses in South Devon by 2023.”
The project has received a wave of community support from local organisations including South Devon College, Central Garage Torbay, Brixham Crafting Bees, Van-Formers, Salters Garage and Motor Parts Direct.
Project Lead & Support Manager, Shaunagh Hart, said: “I have been truly humbled by the support and generosity of the local community in helping us bring this project to life. It goes to show how important Rowcroft Hospice is to so many people.”
Much of the restoration work needed to transform the 45-year-old vehicle into a sleek mobile café was tackled by Automotive students at South Devon College. For 17-year-old Cerys Lyon, having a special connection to the hospice made working on the project feel even more rewarding. “Having known someone who needed the help that Rowcroft provides has really made me feel like I have given something back to a brilliant cause.”
Mark Choppin, Manager of Ella’s Mobile Café, says “Rowcroft plays such an amazing role in supporting our local community, particularly for those experiencing some of the most difficult times imaginable. It’s a real privilege to know that, as well as serving fabulous local food and drink, Ella’s Mobile Café is supporting the incredible care that Rowcroft gives to patients and their families.”
As well as serving refreshments at community events, street parties and popular visitor spots across South Devon, Ella’s Mobile Café is available to hire for festivals, events and weddings at www.ellasmobilecafe.co.uk.