Hello,

We firstly just want to say a huge thank you for all of your incredibly thoughtful and kind messages over the past week. Your support has meant the world to us, and we’ve been truly touched by how many of you have reached out.

As many of you have read, we’ve had to close our family run caffè, Harpers Caffè, in Boxted earlier than planned. The sudden closure of this has unfortunately left us with unavoidable financial liabilities from the business and therefore, making things very difficult financially at the moment. A number of you kindly asked if there was a way to help, so we’ve set up this page for anyone who wishes to make a donation. However, there is absolutely no expectation or pressure at all as I know today’s current climate is difficult for everyone.

My dad and I have loved working together for many years now, firstly with our caffè in Colchester and then in more recent years our caffè in Boxted. The memories and friendships we have built over the years are something we will always treasure. Your kindness during this time has brought us all great comfort.

As many of you are aware, dad has been battling with his health for a while but since October last year, this has progressed a lot quicker than we hoped and has declined significantly over the past few months. After long hospital stays since Christmas, he is now at home with us, and we are focusing on keeping him comfortable and surrounded by family. His time is unfortunately limited and this is the hardest thing to go through. My dad and I are so incredibly close and he's my world.

If you are able to donate, we would be deeply grateful, but if not, simply sharing the link and keeping my dad in your thoughts means just as much. Thank you for your love, support, and the wonderful memories we’ve shared. They will always be treasured.

Thank you, Alice xx