THE FUTURE of a popular refreshment destination in Cirencester is looking up after a family stepped in to save it from closure.

Beano, a converted stainless steel caravan, has been a go-to coffee break spot for families and dog walkers visiting Cirencester Park for the last six years but concerns have recently arisen about its future.

Last week Lady Bathurst, who launched Beano in 2018, said that a combination of Roots + Seeds Kitchen Garden opening at the other end of the park, the introduction of entry passes and bad weather had made the business unviable.

Announcing the closure on Facebook, the countess said: "I am devastated to announce that after the Bank Holiday Monday, Beano will be closing with immediate effect and until further notice.

"I hope this may change, and if anyone knows anyone who would enjoy a lovely job, in beautiful surroundings, with a very good wage, I'd be pleased to hear from them.

"Until then, dear Beano in the Park will have to take a sabbatical or be sold.

"Thank you all for your custom and kindness over the years, but the weather, the opening of Roots and Seeds, and the park charging fees have created the perfect storm."

Many loyal customers expressed their sadness about this on social media.

One resident said: "No more midnight runs for baking ingredients, or lovely chats with dogs and coffee? I do hope you find someone to continue the incredibly important legacy you created."

Another regular customer added: "So very sad to hear this. You have been a constant source of good coffee and great cakes."

This outpour of emotion from the community prompted kind-hearted Ian and Kat Jones to put themselves forward to run the beloved refreshment trailer so its legacy could continue. 

Beano in the Park reopened under their management this morning, Friday, April 5 after a spruce up.

Customers enjoyed a delicious range of cakes made by Emma Davey in the sunshine at the grand reopening,

The husband and wife duo have been busy settling in and have alluded to lots of exciting plans. 
 
Lady Bathurst said: "I am so delighted to have found Ian and Kat who are friendly, full of energy and new ideas and I will be in the background providing support.

"Beano is now in their tender care and I wish them all the luck in the world and look forward to seeing everybody there."
 
Mr Jones said: "This is a complete change of career for me.

"Having been in consultancy for 30 years, it was time for a change and I cannot think of a better place to be.

"Kat and I have got lots of plans including loyalty cards and a new menu, but will still hang onto old favourites like the popular Malteser cake.

"We are really looking forward to meeting everybody and settling in, do come and say hi."
 
Beano in the Park will be open between 8.30am and 5pm seven days a week.