One of the leaders of a project to transform a former bowling club into an award-winning garden and cafe has been named as the new owner of Books and Beans.
Local businessman John Wigglesworth will take over the popular Belmont Street coffee shop from Craig Willox.
Mr Willox announced late last year that he was looking for someone to take the helm, but was determined to find the “right person” before handing over the keys.
Now the father-of-three has revealed Mr Wigglesworth – a founder and board member of the Bonnymuir Green Community Trust which has transformed a derelict bowling into a market garden and not-for-profit cafe – is the man for the job.
Mr Willox said: “I wanted the business to go to someone who will have the same passion for the ethos of Books and Beans.
“We’ve always aimed to be a friendly, relaxed environment where people can feel comfortable with friends or by themselves.
“I started looking for a buyer at the end of September last year.
“I’d been finding that I had less and less time for my family. My three boys are still at primary school and I was finding myself only seeing them for an hour or two most days so wanted to take a step back before they got too old.
“After many meetings with John, his family, and the team here at Books and Beans, I felt we’d found the right person to carry on the spirit of Books and Beans”.
The business currently employs 16 staff and all jobs are transferring to the new business with the trading name staying as Books and Beans.
The cafe offers homemade lunches, second hand books and also hosts an internet cafe.
Mr Wigglesworth said: “I am delighted to take on the business Craig has built up and sustained over the past 16 years. He has grown a community at the cafe where the staff and customers can enjoy a warm, friendly and fun place to hang out. He should be very proud of his achievement.”
