MOMO’S Community café has reopened its doors again, three months on since a car crashed into the venue earlier this summer.

Mayor of St Helens, Councillor Lynn Clarke was on hand to cut the ribbon this morning (Wednesday, August 23) at Momo’s, which first launched on Cotham Street before moving to its current Westfield Street spot in 2019.

The cafe was forced to close in May this year after a driver suffered a medical episode, causing the car to crash into the site.

After months of structural work, the venue has finally re-opened – much to the joy of co-owner and founder Claire Rigby.

Claire said: “When we got that call I couldn’t believe it. I’m just so grateful that the man involved is OK because structural engineers said if the car had hit the front just a few inches either way and not hit the beam, then he might not be here.

“I’ll admit I’ve been a bit lost without Momo’s and I have to thank Col and other people who pulled me out of it; like helping with the Strong Women project in Parr with Carrie Reichhardt and doing talks at Lucem House and getting involved with the Friends of Victoria Park.

"But I’m very grateful to get back to Momo’s and welcome people back in.

“It took longer than expected, and now we hope to welcome everyone through our doors.”

Mayor of St Helens, Cllr Lynn Clarke was on hand to cut the ribbon.

Here is that moment.

The cafe, which serves breakfasts and lunches, acts as a meeting point for various community groups.

It also has a space which focuses on local heritage, including a collection of history books.