Coffee on the Corner, the dog, cyclist, and family-friendly coffee house, has temporarily shut up shop because of the coronavirus crisis.

But you can invest in its future by buying coffee vouchers valid for 12 months after the shop reopens.

Coffee OTC, opened in July last year at the corner of Beaconsfield Road and King Charles Road, Surbiton, and was an immediate hit with locals and those using Alexandra Rec’s playground opposite – especially youngsters wanting one of its delicious gelatos!

But owner Kyle Hyams has taken the difficult decision to close completely rather than continuing to offer a takeaway service.

“It’s our way of participating in the fight against coronavirus,” said Kyle who grew up locally and whose long-held ambition was to open his own coffee shop. “I cannot comment on other establishments decisions and I do not know their full circumstances, however in the two days since the announcement I have seen large groups congregating outside coffee shops, cafes and other takeaways. This defeats the object. Us providing a takeaway would give people a reason to leave their homes, when the clear advice we’ve been given is to stay at home unless essential.

“We love talking to our regulars, welcoming new visitors in and being a part of the community. Their safety is also paramount and the best way we can protect them is by not asking them to come in.

“The steps the government put in place are to minimise the spread of an awful disease and prevent strain on our national health service workers, many who visit us regularly. If we can do anything to help them we will.

“We love our shop, we love coffee, we love cake and we love gelato, but we love people more! We have a moral duty to do what we feel is right and appreciate the support we’ve had so far.

“If you would like to support us during our temporary closure, we have coffee vouchers available, all of which will be valid for 12 months from our reopening date.”

Link to £10, £20 and £50 vouchers here.