A NEW cafe which is proving a hit in St Helens town centre has been officially opened by the Mayor of St Helens.

As reported by the Star, the venue opened the Masonic Building, on the corner of Church Street and Hall Street, earlier this month.

Located a little further down the road from St Helens Masonic Hall, the business pays homage to the building's history with its 'Cafe Masonic' name as well as framed pictures of how the building has operated in years gone by.

The team has been delighted by the response from customers, who wanted to try the cafe and support a new local business.

On Friday, Mayor of St Helens, Councillor Jeanette Banks was on hand to cut the ribbon of the eaterie, which has brought an empty building back into use. 

Owner Mike Heyes, from Crank, has described the site, known for formerly housing the Army & Navy store, as an iconic building.

He bought the landmark to restore it ahead of the regeneration plans and build apartments upstairs - but realised there was also an ideal space for a cafe.

Members of the cafe's team behind the counter  (Image: St Helens Star)

"We became aware that the building was derelict for around 12 years and realised that we had the perfect space for a cafe, he previously told the Star.

"This is all a bit new to me but I've had my other half helping out and we have a great team to grow the business, and we are committed to using local suppliers and employing local people."

Mike said that the business offers a traditional breakfast and lunch menu, as well as freshly made specials. 

A well known store once occupied the ground floorA well known store once occupied the ground floor (Image: Cafe Masonic)

And although the business may be impacted by the demolition of the Hardshaw Centre in the coming months, Mike was optimistic that the cafe can grow its reputation with builders and contractors, and will benefit from its prime location once the regeneration plans start to come together.

Cafe Masonic , on the corner of Hall Street and Church Street (Image: St Helens Star) Speaking to the Star on Friday, he added: "All the customers coming in here have been really positive; they find us affordable and like that we don't charge as much as some places.

"We're made up with the start we've had and to have an official opening with the mayor coming down was great."