After two decades serving locals and visitors alike, while generating thousands of pounds for charity, one of Jersey’s most beloved seaside fixtures is up for sale.
Rhona Hewitt opened Rhona’s at the Beach in Gorey in 2005 and celebrated its 20th anniversary in August.
Her business has been extremely successful over the years due to its location, ‘iconic’ menu items and community spirit – with the stall having generated more than £50,000 for several local charities through fish finger sandwiches and cake.
But as the end of the milestone year draws closer, Rhona took to social media to share that, following a cancer diagnosis 18 months ago, she’ll now be looking to take a well-deserved break to focus on her health.
As Rhona looks towards a calmer and simpler lifestyle, she said she had taken the decision to sell up the busy kiosk.
She also expressed her gratitude towards her customers and her friends who have supported her over the years.
“The cafe will be an amazing opportunity for someone new, it’s busy, friendly and hugely successful. We’ll still be around for quite a while and everything will run completely as normal until the right person comes along,” she said on Facebook.
The post generated more than 500 reactions, with scores of Islanders taking to the comments to share their praise for Rhona and well wishes for the future.
Local swimming legend Sally Minty-Gravett said: “I’ve been expecting this news. You need to focus on you and your health. You have set up the most amazing successful business and I sincerely hope the right person comes forward soon so you can start focussing on you.”
Another social media user described it as the “end of an era”, while another chimed in: “You really do deserve this new chapter. All you’ve given not only as a business looking after customers but your dedication to raising money too. You’re a real life hero Rhona.”
Meanwhile, Tania Angell suggested that Rhona’s place in Island history should be marked in a more formal way.
“Don’t know if slipways can be ‘named’, but this one should bear your name as you made it Rhona’s… A place, not only a cafe.”
Fancy a new challenge?
Anyone interested in taking on Rhona’s at the Beach is urged to send an email to businessforsale2025@yahoo.com.
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