We welcome lots of mums and grandmums into the community café, most of whom are intent on buying homemade cake and warm milk or hot chocolate for their charges. (Kat’s Chocolate cake with Malteser crumb seems to be a favourite with all ages!) On a typical weekday morning, we met grandma Clare and granddaughter Evie, aged 14, from Shipston; grandma Carol, mum Emma and grandson Reuben from Hidcote Boyce; and nanny Julia Smithers with granddaughter Anastasia, who’s nearly two. Julia and Anastasia are Ilmington regulars and they often start their day in the café. “We come in for lots of reasons,” says Julia. “The peace and quiet, the lovely views, the warm space and the friendly people. Oh, and to get away from the housework!” A quick shout-out to Anastasia’s mum Yve, too, as we salute mothers and grandmothers everywhere…
