A family-run Abergavenny coffee shop that opened its doors in the town last year has thanked customers for their continued support during a difficult year.

Rosie and Izzy’s Coffee Shop on Cibi Walk opened for trading on August 18, 2020.

The shop is owned by Melanie Rich, with Melanie’s daughter Millie working as manager, whilst daughter Mikaela and son Mason also work at the shop.

Rosie and Izzy’s has proven a popular addition to the many independent businesses and traders that adorn the Cibi Walk precinct with the kind-hearted and welcoming staff always available for a chat – particularly important during the Covid pandemic when many people have felt lonely and isolated following lockdowns.

Despite the many challenges the pandemic has thrown up and continues to, both Melanie and Millie wanted to express their gratitude to their customers. Speaking to the Chronicle, Rosie and Izzy’s owner Melanie said: “All the staff here at Rosie & Izzy’s would like to say a huge heartfelt thank you to all of our customers old and new.

“It’s been a year full of ups and downs in a world full of uncertainty.

‘‘A year ago when we went in to a lockdown we closed down the coffee bar full of sadness and believed that upon return we would be covid free.

‘‘So here we are once again struggling each one of us with the restrictions covid has put on us.

“Personally I have tried to see the positives that the world has to offer me.

‘‘Speaking on behalf of all of us at Rosie & Izzy’s I can tell you that the positives are our wonderful customers.

‘‘We thank you for all of the kindness, patience and love you have shown us and we hope in some way we have made a difference to you.”

The coffee shop also recently organised a charity toy drive appeal with all toys being donated to the paediatric ward at the Grange hospital in Cwmbran.

They were overwhelmed to collect 80 toys as part of the drive and wanted to say a ‘huge thank you’ to all those who donated.

Despite the difficulties this year has posed, Melanie hopes for a brighter future and to continue forging new relationships with customers, adding: “As the owner of Rosie & Izzy’s, I personally consider so many of you to be friends and going forward I hope we continue to build what I consider to be a wonderful coffee bar, in a very wonderful town, Abergavenny.”