THE Humble Pie Coffee Shop is reopening in Winsford today as the owner continues to battle coronavirus in hospital.

Neil Hawkins fell ill five days after the cafe welcomed customers back earlier this month whilst extensive Covid-19 safety measures were in place.

The 50-year-old was rushed into Leighton Hospital and is now on a ventilator after being treated in intensive care for two weeks.

Northwich Guardian:

The Humble Pie Coffee Shop had a modern makeover during lockdown designed by owner and graphic designer Neil Hawkins

Wife Sarah, 44, daughter Alicia, 19, and several members of staff also tested positive but have now made a good recovery. Their 15-year-old son was the only member of the family who escaped the virus.

Sarah immediately closed the cafe but has now had it professionally deep cleaned and, with the help of dedicated staff, is looking forward to welcoming customers back.

Northwich Guardian:

Humble Pie Coffee Shop has been professionally deep cleaned

"Neil is in a very serious condition but he is not in any immediate danger," she said. "He was put on a ventilator because his body is getting very tired.

"All his organs are perfectly fine. He could be on a ventilator for at least a week or however long it takes his body to heal. He is absolutely jiggered. They want to let his body recover from the battering of constantly trying to fight for breath."

Sarah and her family have been overwhelmed with kind messages from customers and the local community.

"We have been totally blown away by all the support from people across the town," said Sarah, who is indebted to her staff for helping to get the coffee shop back up and running.

"The staff have been absolutely phenomenal. We are like a little family. They have all been great stepping in and helping out. It is keeping my mind occupied rather than constantly worrying.

Northwich Guardian:

Every part of the coffee shop including the kitchen has been professionally deep cleaned

"Neil was quite excited about launching Uber Eats. We have pulled together and managed to sort out a live app. We will continue to offer our home delivery service."

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The couple left full time jobs two years ago to start their dream business.

Sarah worked as a teaching assistant at St Nicholas Catholic High School, supporting children with special needs. Neil was a graphic designer for Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.

They bought the coffee shop from Pete Davies who retired after running the successful cafe for more than 25 years.

To boost business during lockdown, the coffee shop introduced home deliveries of breakfast boxes and afternoon teas.

They proved so popular they will continue to be offered on the menu alongside homemade favourites including fish and chips, chilli, curry, pies and omelettes.

Sarah can't wait to start serving again.

"At the end of the day most of us have had coronavirus so we can't pass it on," she said. "I have had the coffee shop deep cleaned. It is the safest place you could come and eat.

Northwich Guardian:

The Humble Pie Coffee Shop has been completed cleaned and defogged

"At the moment Neil is doing Ok. We are just taking each day one at a time."