The Lucy’s Best Bites Café in Gorseinon was completely destroyed by fire in the early morning of Sunday 23 March.
Writing on social media a few hours after the fire, owner Lucy Sharpe said: “I am so sad to announce this but at 2am this morning our cafe caught on fire and the cafe is completely destroyed.
“We are completely devastated and have no idea what the future holds. We would like to thank everyone that has supported in the last 2 years. I will contact people in time that have booked buffets in with me.”
A fundraiser has been launched for Lucy and her partner Mark by Natalie Ridler in order to help the couple rebuild their business.
Natalie said: “We are reaching out to our community to support Lucy and Mark , who have given so much to others and now need our help. Tragically, Lucy’s best bites was destroyed in a devastating fire, taking away not only their livelihood but also a vital part of Gorseinon’s local community. With both of their incomes dependent on the business, they are now facing significant financial uncertainty.
“Lucy and Mark are always the first to lend a helping hand, supporting others. Their generosity and dedication have touched so many lives, and now it’s our turn to stand by them. They have a young family to support, and every contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference as they begin to rebuild. Please consider donating and sharing this fundraiser to spread the word.”
The fundraiser has reached over £2,700 with over 100 people donating in just one day.
Reacting to news of the fire on social media, Sylvia Thomas said: “As your mother/mother in law this is absolutely devastating. My heart breaks for you both. I know the hard work, commitment you’ve both put into this cafe. You’ve built a great community spirit, where people can come to relax, chat and feel welcomed. I know the community will support you anyway they can, as will I. You will survive this. You’ve got your beautiful family, friends and community behind you.”
Neighbouring business owner, Penny Heaven wrote: “As both your neighbour & friend I speak for all of us in Heaven Hair Beauty Aesthetics at how sorry we are at this awful news and how sad to hear your heartbroken voice earlier. We are putting our heads together as I type this to figure out our own fundraiser to support you through this so you come back bigger & stronger. In the meantime we are sending you, Mark and your family a big group hug and if there’s anything we can do just say.”
Gorseinon resident Claire Morgan said: “What awful news to hear this morning. I’m so sorry this has happened to your wonderful cafe. You are definitely not alone, The people of Gorseinon are here to support you and help you going forwards.
The fire service say that crews from Gorseinon, Swansea and Morriston were called to the late night blaze.
A spokesperson for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “At 1.45am on Sunday, March 23rd, the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service crews from Gorseinon, Morriston and Swansea Central Fire Stations were called to an incident at High Street in Gorseinon.
“Crews responded to a fire involving a terraced a property, measuring approximately 7 metres by 20 metres and consisting of one commercial property with one residential flat above.
“The fire was located on the property’s ground floor, crews extinguished the fire by utilising two hose reel jets, four breathing apparatus sets, two thermal imaging cameras, one safety jet, one short-extension ladder and one positive pressure ventilation fan.
“Crews conducted a search of the property and all persons were accounted for. No fire spread was found between the ground and first floors. Crews left the scene at 3.32am.”
A spokesman for South Wales Police said: “Officers attended a fire at a café premises on High Street, Gorseinon, Swansea which was spotted by an officer driving past the premises at around 1.45am on Sunday, March 23. The fire service extinguished the fire. There are no suspicious circumstances and the fire is likely to have been an electrical fire. No injuries were sustained in this incident.”
(Lead image: Lucy Sharp)
