‘You’ve built a beautiful place’ cry devastated locals as busy cafe to close in weeks as owner reveals health battle

LOCALS have been left devastated after it was confirmed that a popular cafe is set to close.

Nook Cafe and Restaurant, located in Collooney, Sligo, is set to close next month.

The business, located on Lower Main Street in the town, became a favourite with locals for its artisan food, deli, wine shop and catering services.

Owner Ethna confirmed the news on social media, citing health issues as the reason for the closure.

In a post on Facebook, she wrote: “I’m honestly not sure how to write this without forgetting some wonderful people through an amazing period of my life.

“A lot of people have heard a rumour that Nook is closing, and yep, it’s true! We close at the end of October.

“I always said I’d make it to 10 years, and I have, but also in those 10 years, I’ve had 8 surgeries, 6 of them in my abdomen.”

Sadly, she revealed that after a few surgeries didn’t go to plan, she has been left unable to work as much as before.

She added: “Not all the surgeries went to plan, and it has left me in a pretty bad way, especially with chronic pain.

“I used to be able to work 8 hour days, but now I can only manage less than 2 hours.”

Ethna revealed that she will be stepping back to focus on her health after a new medical issue came to light.

The statement added: “I’m up to Dublin most weeks for treatments, so running a business too is hard!

“I’m sad about it, of course, but I am so bloody proud of what I achieved in those 10 years.

“And what a 10 years they were!”

Ethna paid tribute to a number of staff members, thanking them for their loyalty.

She said: “Emma, the most wonderful Emma, thank you for being the most incredible person, I can’t even describe how much you mean to me. You have been with me for 10 years, through ups and downs, and all in-between. You are an angel.

“Dylan, an absolutely amazing chef, you are a real gem. Any kitchen that you will work in will be absolutely blessed.

“And our newer front of house, Aimee, Ruby and Emily, you are absolutely fab!

“Colette, my landlady, thank you for being the best I could ask for, you have been so good to me, I will never forget your kindness.”

Continuing her thanks, she paid tribute to her family, friends, suppliers and her husband.

The statement continued: “My parents, parents in law, my husband, I couldn’t have done this without you.

“To all my wonderful suppliers, thank you for everything.”

Finally, she thanked her customers, asking them to come in for one last “fix”.

She said: “And our customers, you made Nook. The chats, the laughs, the new friendships.

“Each person who walked through our doors, thank you.

“So, I plan to close the end of October, so plenty of time to get your Naanwich and KFC fix

“Past staff, I can’t forget you, each of you. Thank you so much for being a part of Nook, do pop in before we close, and thank you, you absolute legends.”

She also called for anyone interested in running the cafe to get in touch with her.

She concluded: “If you, or someone you know is interested in running the cafe, pop me a message.

“It’s a great spot, and Collooney is a great community to be surrounded by.

“Do pop in before the end of October, we will do some specials and sales!”

Customers were left devastated by the news, with many taking to the comments section to share their opinions.

One person wrote: “So sorry to hear this but you have to do what is right for you. You have built a beautiful place in Nook and a beautiful and long lasting reputation and relationship with locals and beyond through Nook also.

“Here’s to better health, a bit of a rest and to recovery. And who knows what the future will bring. Maybe we will see a Nook 2.0 in the near future. Best of Luck with everything. We will be always here for you regardless xx – very happy Nook customer from Dublin.”

Another commented: “Sorry to hear this news, always loved the Nook Café & Restaurant. Thanks for great food and service over the years , wishing you all the best.”

Someone else said: “Wishing you all the best for the future. So sorry to see such a wonderful local restaurant close but your health is most important.

“Thank you to you and your fantastic staff over the years.”