How independent cafes in Sheffield are responding to coronavirus during ‘worrying’ times

Several popular independent venues have outlined the measures they are taking to reassure visitors, while thanking loyal customers for their continued support which they say is needed more than ever.

Forge Bakehouse on Abbeydale Road announced on Friday that until further notice it would be a ‘cashless environment to minimise the risk of contamination’.

Schools in Sheffield cancel assemblies to curb coronavirus spread, as they prepare for possibility of closure

It also described how water bottles, sugar and sauces would be stored in a clean environment and available on request rather than set on tables.

The business asked customers to wash or sanitise their hands before sitting down too, revealed it was temporarily unable to accept reusable cups for takeaway coffees and said it was carrying out extra cleaning as a precaution.

Ginger, on Glossop Road in Broomhill, has moved benches outside so people san sit in the fresh air if they wish, made the water dispenser available by request only and said contactless payment is preferable, though it is still accepting cash.

Urban Outfitters closes Meadowhall store over coronavirus as Sheffield cases rise to 12

It has also asked people not to leave tissues or wipes on their saucers and not to bring any dirty pots to the counter as staff will clear and sanitise tables ready for the next customer.

Owner Anne Greaves said: “As a relatively new small business this is of course a worrying time for us. While we completely understand that people need to stay safe and do what's best for them and others close to them, we really do appreciate people's continued custom - choosing an independent business over a large company is more important than ever at the moment.

“We entirely depend on the cafe for our income and many of our suppliers are dependent on us and other small businesses like us. We're doing everything we can to keep Ginger safe and hygienic, as well as bright and welcoming, to try and keep trade going as long as we're able to.”

Coronavirus LIVE: UK government to hold emergency meeting as 12 cases confirmed in Sheffield

There are 12 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Sheffield, according to the latest figures from Public Health England, and 35 people across the UK have died after contracting the virus.