Cumbria’s first CBD cafe has opened its doors.
West Lakes Hemp has opened the cafe on the Leconfield estate in Cleator Moor.
Founders Nic Hewitt and Luke Woodend had hoped to open the cafe 12 months ago, but COVID-19 hindered their plans.
Nic said: “Many long winter nights were spent at our new premises giving it the Nic and Luke feel, we like everything to be welcoming and friendly.
“We have strived to cater to all in our community, we have created a private consultation room where people can come for advice on CBD and our products. We look to educate, help, and guide those with knowledge gaps in Cumbria, as CBD is still a topic that isn’t as widely known purely down to the lack of open conversation.
“We have had a big push on a local supply chain, one of our newest suppliers is Emma Bakes who are producing our CBD cakes, sandwiches and treats.
“Neither I or Luke have ever worked in a hospitality setting, so getting used to our fancy coffee machines has been interesting and a good laugh!”
CBD is a food supplement that contains the legal substance of cannabidiol and is not psychoactive.
Several studies find it may relieve physical pain and help combat mental health issues.
Anni Hamer, an active CBD user and advocate from Carlisle, claims it has helped her with fibromyalgia.
She said: “I have seen a huge improvement in my own life, with anxiety and sleep – I feel a lot calmer and relaxed.
“Unfortunately, there is still a stigma attached to CBD, but this is purely down to a lack of understanding and moves like this from Nic and Luke will really help make the information and education far more accessible and approachable.”
West Lakes Hemp has been around since 2018 and they have predominately sold products online for the last four years, in the early days they had a store in Carlisle, but when COVID hit the company focused primarily on e-commerce.
Luke said: “Our café has been delayed significantly by COVID, but I’m very happy to be seeing our community in real life again.
“We have seen sales for our products soar over the last year as many have struggled with their mental health and wellbeing. It’s been very hard for us all with many working at home every day on our own, with the sense of isolation and lack of routine.
“I have missed our customers and friends, so a café where everyone is welcome is music to my ears.
“I’m really chuffed and proud we are back and back fighting the good cause, it’s great for my own wellbeing to be experiencing that true Cumbrian community atmosphere once again.
“The support so far has been excellent, and we really can’t fault our first week, a great start on a long journey ahead.”
