Denver Mill Cafe shuts down less than a year after opening

A cafe located at a historic mill has closed with immediate effect - despite reopening less than a year ago.

The team running Denver Mill Cafe announced the closure yesterday, saying that it is “not a decision we wanted to take”.

The reasons behind the closure remain unclear - but the Lynn News has been told it is down to “circumstances beyond control”.

The cafe was run by Jayne Highnam and Emma Gibson, who previously said that they took the opportunity on a “whim”.

It was officially opened in January by former South West Norfolk MP Liz Truss after a soft launch the previous month.

In a statement released today, the team said: “Emma and Jayne would like to thank all the wonderful customers and friends who have helped support the Denver Mill Cafe from its start in the middle of a very cold December last year.

“We have created lasting friendship with many and gave outstanding, eager staff members the chance to learn and progress with confidence. We are proud of them all.

“But sadly we need to confirm that the Denver Mill Cafe will not reopen its doors from today.

“It’s not a decision that we wanted to take, and one that has taken a lot of thought.

“We would have loved to be able to keep the doors open with the fun and the banter with our great customers who made it a wonderful place to be over the last ten months.

“But the chains are on, the doors are locked and the lights are off.”

The statement added: “The whole team cannot thank you all enough for the support and kindness you have shown and we in turn hope that we have shown that offering kindness and support to all that entered the café goes a long way, alongside plate after plate of wonderful food made by Emma.

“Denver and Downham Market have so much to offer in terms of great food and great drinks, please continue to support local businesses.”

Norman Highnam, Jayne’s husband, told the Lynn News that the closure is down to “circumstances out of our control” and a “combination of things”.

He said this meant that staff had to make a “quick decision”, but that they are disappointed because the cafe was “doing well”.

Mr Highnam added: “But winter was coming and certain things happened over the past few weeks, and it was time to draw a line.”

Denver Mill, located on Sluice Road, also hosts the likes of a bar, beauty salon and crystal business.