Having first opened its doors in 2011, Parklife Café in Shirley was on the verge of closing when manager Paula Shapland took over in 2018.

Seven years later, the café is thriving like never before, supporting people in the community and hosting various charity events throughout the year.

“We were on the edge of closing in 2018,” said Nigel Fayle, a voluntary director at the café.

“There was a big excitement when we first opened but after that we didn’t really have a direction, and nobody wanted to buy local.”

“It was rundown and had a bad reputation,” Paula added.

“We were just a café, and it was getting vandalised, it took three years to really turn it around and become more involved in the community.

“Now, we’ve got 30 people working for us, we support people of all ages in the area, we try and look after everyone, and the café has become a bit of a sanctuary for people that we see every day.”

READ MORE: The Farmers Butcher named best in the South East at awards

People enjoying a bite to eat outside Parklife Café (Image: Supplied) As part of Parklife Café’s work in the community, Paula and her team hand out food parcels to around 400 people each week, free of charge, and are also an integral part to life in St James’ Park, taking part in the annual summer festival.

“We’re in a really nice location here,” said Paula.

“We have indoor space where people can come in and sit down – buy a drink and some food – but then we’ve also got an outdoor seating area with views of the park.

“People will often spend time in the park because it’s a huge space, and then come to us, equally people will stop by here first to have a drink or a chat and then go on into the park where children are able to play.

“We get lots of dog walkers and joggers too. It’s always a nice atmosphere; I think everyone takes pride in the café and it’s wonderful to see. If we can find a way to help anyone we always will.”

Nigel added: “I know it’s a cliché, but we are a community hub.”

Fellow director, Peter Cowing, praised the café’s impact on the area following the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said: “I think when the café reopened after the pandemic, there were a lot of people who wanted to get out more and enjoy this kind of space.

“I think the work here gives people a sense of pride in the community.

“We cater to as many people as possible and it’s good to see the café thriving.”