This afternoon I bumped into Dom Hooley, joint manager of Eastleigh Basics Bank, at the Fryern Arcade of Chandler’s Ford.
Dom told me that Waitrose rang him yesterday and said it would be donating their food to Eastleigh Basics Bank tomorrow.
The reason? The Chandler’s Ford Waitrose store will temporarily close from 5pm on Saturday 4th of March, and will reopen at 8am on Friday 10th of March.
So, for the middle class people in Chandler’s Ford, you’ll have to survive a week without Waitrose (and its free coffee).
Dom told me Eastleigh Basics Bank is very pleased with the donation and will be collecting the food from Waitrose tomorrow before it shuts for a week.
Waitrose also wished to donate chilled and frozen food but unfortunately the Basics Bank has no facility to keep them. Dom hoped that Waitrose has managed to find a good home for these food.
Waffles and Cream
I finally had a glimpse of Waffles and Cream, the new shop at the Fryern Arcade.
The shop is next to the charity shop Age UK, and Roban James, the lighting shop.
While I was walking past at about 4pm this afternoon, Waffles and Cream seemed busy with lots of mums and school children. I didn’t enter the shop but my first impression was that it looked welcoming.
(I would certainly go in if someone offers to buy me some.)
The shop was opened on Valentine’s Day by the Mayor of Eastleigh, Councillor Des Scott.
Faceboook page of Waffles and Cream.
I wonder if the refurbishment of Waitrose has been influenced by the forthcoming M&S food in Twyford Road?
Not quite sure. What I’m sure about is that parking in both places will be challenging.
I’ve heard when Waitrose Chandler’s Ford reopens, there will be a new Sushi Daily counter.