WINSFORD’S newest venue, ‘The Hive’, will open its doors to the public next week – an exciting development for the town off the back of 'Freedom Day'.

And although Covid restrictions have now been lifted, the venue asks that visitors remain vigilant and continue to wear face masks when in close proximity to each other.

The Hive Live Ltd, a charitable community benefit society, completed the purchase of the De Bees site in January 2020.

The Hive committee had hoped to have the former De Bees club renovated and open in time for summer 2020 before the pandemic struck.

But having secured significant grant funding before Covid-19 hit Britain, preparations were been able to continue for the exciting project, although no firm timescales were confirmed during the health crisis.

In almost perfect timing with the easing of Covid restrictions, from Monday (July 26) the community is invited to have a sneak preview of the new cafe ahead of the official unveiling of the brand new cafe bar, terrace and courtyard facilities.

Not only will it offer a variety of refreshments, but also a comfortable space to work, chat, network, and take part in a variety of exciting activities.

The opening of the new courtyard space will allow it to host a range of events, from live music to comedy to educational classes, as well as providing further outdoor eating space for the cafe.

The Hive cafe will open 9am until 5pm next week to give residents a chance to have a look around the facilities and contribute to the growing pot of ideas for activities to be delivered in The Hive venue going forwards.

Damon Horrill, treasurer, The Hive Live Ltd said: "The Hive Live began fundraising in 2019 in order to save the ‘DeBees’ building from redevelopment.

"Following a successful campaign, residents and supporters invested sufficient alongside grants and loans to buy the building for the town and refurbish it to provide a new and engaging cultural facility, making it one of very few community-owned venues in the entire country."

A busy programme of events is already in the pipeline for the launch weekend.

On Friday, July 30, Kevin Dewsbury, Sean Percival and Duncan Oakley will take the stage for the first of The Hive's monthly comedy clubs – one of the many live events which are starting to crop up now restrictions allow.

Tickets and more information are now available on The Hive’s website (www.thehivelive.org).

You can also email hello@thehivelive.org, pop in to the cafe or make an appointment by calling 07771 985129.