A simple idea, sparked by generosity and a desire to serve, has grown into something deeply valued at the heart of rural life in Lockerley and East Dean.
Back in 2009, the PCC made the decision to create a welcoming space where local people could gather for conversation, companionship, and, of course, coffee and cake. What began as a small initiative has flourished into a thriving community café that continues to make a difference 17 years later.
In a rural setting where local services can be limited, the café has become a vital provision. When the village post office closed, a pop-up replacement was established in the village hall, and the café was set up alongside it—helping to safeguard an essential community service while offering something more: connection.
Today, the café remains a place where people of all ages come together. On Mondays, the Café provides a welcoming space for parents and toddlers who have usually attended the Little Fishes group (run by the church) and want to stay on for coffee and cake. On Thursdays, it draws a slightly older clientele, creating a rhythm of community that spans generations, with visitors ranging in age up to 99.
“It’s just nice to have a social thing, to drop in and have a coffee and a chat,” said attendee Ian.
At its heart, the café is sustained by the dedication of volunteers, many of whom are part of the church community. Week after week, they faithfully serve tea and coffee, creating a warm and hospitable environment for all who walk through the doors.
Jen, one of the volunteer organisers of the café, said, “It’s so important to everybody, and it’s so unusual to have blokes doing coffee together, it’s usually just the girls, but they just love it. There is nowhere else you can go to be together, so it’s absolutely essential.”
The café is known not only for its welcoming atmosphere but also for its delicious homemade cakes—baked generously by volunteers, often without the thought of reimbursement. While the Victoria sponge is always a favourite, the cheese scones have developed something of a local reputation.
With coffee and cake available for just £1, the café remains accessible to all, reflecting its founding vision of generosity and community care. Any profits made are shared directly with the village hall, ensuring the wider community continues to benefit.
Long-standing member and benefice reader, John said, “The starting point was the church, and since then, the café has been a starting point for a lot of other community things in the village.”
Beyond the café itself, new groups and friendships have grown. One such example is the Lockerley Mechanicals, a group brought together through the café who now enjoy building model railways and even lending their skills to support church maintenance. The cafe also supports a Community Book Exchange.
Seventeen years on, what started as a small PCC initiative has become a lasting expression of the church’s commitment to its community—a place where friendships are formed, support is offered, and God’s love is shared in simple, practical ways.
