Roger Whitehead
The Reverend Roger Whitehead has been minister of The Strand Church (URC) Dawlish for seven years. Before this he had ministries in Hereford, Harrow and north Bedfordshire. Under his leadership, the Strand Church has leased its building in the centre of Dawlish to the Strand Community Trust which has developed it as a resource for the community and produced the Inspire Cafe.
Inspire’s success is down to its volunteer’s help; you can meet them here.
Adam Gidney
Catering since 1999, Adam trained in the UK encompassing all sides of the trade from front of house, to chefing, to management. He has worked all over the country as well as in Melbourne, Australia.
“Inspire is a great opportunity to support the town I grew up in. We produce classic English cuisine but with a twist. All food is freshly prepared each morning using local produce and Fair Trade goods. I pride myself on knowing exactly what is going out on each plate, offering fresh, healthy food at a great price.”
Marie Whitehead
After 30 years as an Early Years teacher Marie retired to look after her and Roger's grandchildren.
This still keeps her fit and busy along with other Church and Community work.
On Mondays and Tuesdays she is involved with Lunch Clubs in the Strand Hall, and on a Thursday you'll find her leading the 'Coffee and Kids' group in the Centre. From the beginning she was really excited about the Inspire Cafe. She believes its a place where everyone is accepted and helped whenever possible. Marie is keen to keep the 'Suspended Coffee' scheme going for people who are not able to buy a cuppa and happy that even full meals are given in times of need.
Cafe manager Adam Gidney with volunteers Mary and Brenda
Hosted by Dathorn