Angie Boyd Shearer and Lindsay's vision for a vibrant community cafe
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Reviving community spirit: The story behind Castle Street Coffee
In the heart of Huntly, a new venture is brewing that promises to transform the local landscape. Castle Street Coffee, spearheaded by Angie Boyd Shearer and her wife Lindsay, is not just another cafe; it’s a vision to create a vibrant community hub aimed at supporting the youth of the town.
The idea sparked when Angie stumbled upon the dilapidated Castle Cafe, a beloved local spot that had closed its doors in 2019. Instead of viewing the building as a relic of the past, Angie and Lindsay saw potential.
From vision to reality
Angie, a seasoned PE teacher with over 17 years of experience, has always been passionate about empowering young people. Her previous venture, Full Colour Coaching, focused on helping students combat anxiety and build confidence. Recognizing the need for a safe space for youth in Huntly, she envisioned Castle Street Coffee as a place where young people could gather, socialize, and find support without the pressures often associated with traditional counseling.
“We want to create an environment where young people can just be themselves,” Angie explains. “Whether it’s playing games, chatting with friends, or simply enjoying a hot chocolate, this cafe will cater to their needs.” The couple’s commitment goes beyond serving coffee; they aim to reinvest profits back into the community, ensuring that the cafe becomes a sustainable resource for local youth.
A community-focused approach
Castle Street Coffee is designed to be inclusive, with plans for a youth shed that will provide additional recreational activities. Angie and Lindsay have been actively engaging with local youth to understand their needs and preferences. “We’ve been listening to what they want,” Lindsay adds. “It’s about creating a space that feels welcoming and fun.” The cafe will feature seating for 30, a takeaway hatch for quick snacks, and a variety of entertainment options in the youth shed, including pool tables and soft seating.
Moreover, the cafe will serve as a training ground for local students interested in the hospitality industry. With a barista course offered at the local school, students will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, enhancing their employability. “We want to bridge the gap for young people seeking work placements,” Angie notes. “This is about building skills and confidence.”
Fundraising and community involvement
Launching Castle Street Coffee is no small feat. The couple estimates they will need around £80,000 to get started, covering renovations, staff salaries, and operational costs for the first year. To achieve this, they are exploring various funding avenues, including grants and community fundraising initiatives. Catriona Skene, their fundraising consultant, is already brainstorming creative ways to engage the community, such as a pancake competition that could see local recipes featured on the cafe’s menu.
“We want to make fundraising fun and inclusive,” Catriona emphasizes. “It’s about bringing people together and making them feel part of something bigger.” With the support of the community, Angie and Lindsay are optimistic about their timeline, hoping to open the cafe by December, with the youth shed launching even sooner.
As excitement builds among locals, it’s clear that Castle Street Coffee is more than just a cafe; it’s a beacon of hope for the community. “Huntly needs a place like this,” a local teenager remarked, echoing the sentiments of many who are eager for the cafe to open its doors. With a focus on youth empowerment and community engagement, Castle Street Coffee is set to become a cherished gathering place for all.
