A CAFE popular with families that reopened under new management just seven months ago has closed with immediate effect.

Ant and Arron Parry-Hughes took over the reins of the Sugar Den, located on Market Street in Abergele last, August.

On Saturday, March 9, the business put out a statement on social media saying that the Sugar Den was shutting its doors due to "persistent financial challenges".

The cafe is now listed on Facebook and Google as 'permanently closed'.

The website also states: 'Whoops! That page doesn't exist!'

The statement said: "It is with a very heart that we have to announce the closure of The Sugar Den. This decision has not been made lightly and we have dedicated considerable time exploring all options to sustain the business, but this has been without success.

"The decision has been made as a direct result of the persistent financial challenges, which have been exacerbated by rising energy and insurance costs, the ongoing cost of living crisis, and price hikes in nearly all areas of our business, some of these burdens we have shouldered but there comes a point where we can do so no longer.

"The Sugar Den has been a big part of the Abergele community for over six years and we will miss serving all our regular customers. We are extremely grateful for all your support over the years and we have loved making memories with you all."

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Tracey Hargreaves-Jones and her husband Russ revealed last year that they were stepping away from The Sugar Den in Abergele after nearly six years of "building the business up from nothing but an empty shop".

The brightly coloured cafe, which sold milkshakes, ice-cream, Belgian waffles and crepes, had become hugely popular for its children's parties, workshops such as sand art, building a bear, slime and bracelet making and festive events. 

Tracey posted in the comments: "This is really sad news. Good luck Ant in whatever you do next. I’ve missed being there since you bought it of us last year.

"Russ and I loved starting the business up from nothing and have some very fond memories from the six and a half years we were there.

"End of an era. Sad times for everyone."