Saturday was the purrrrrfect day for Sara Williams as the Patchwork Cat opened for its first day of trading.

The President of Newhaven Chamber of Commerce Mike Shorer and Mayor of Newhaven Cllr Paul Boswell cut the ribbon shortly after 11, welcoming residents, businesses and visitors to the new cafe and haberdashery shop at 3 Newhaven Square.

Sara said, “It was a fantastic day, starting this business has been a dream of mine for many years and seeing it all come together today is so fulfilling and rewarding”.

Sara was one of 15 individuals who received individual mentoring and support to start her business via LEAP – the Local Enterprise and Apprenticeship Platform. Fully funded by Lewes District Council and run by EDEAL Enterprise Agency, Sara attended a series of start up seminars and workshops as well as a mentor to help her develop her business plan and launch her business.

Stephen Holt, Business Development Manager for EDEAL said “It was absolutely fantastic to see so many people enjoying this wonderful new business in the heart of Newhaven. Helping Sara develop her business idea into a reality has been so rewarding for everyone at EDEAL and we wish her the best of luck. Not only do they serve great coffee, wonderful fabrics and put on excellent classes – but you can also have a slice of delicious home made cake. What’s not to love!”

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