New Isle of Wight businesses are springing out of the Covid-19 lockdown. Over the next few days and weeks, the County Press will be featuring some of them.

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A brand new cafe and sweet-themed bouquets business has opened in Newport, after years of planning.

As the Isle of Wight's high streets emerge after the Covid-19 lockdown, wife-and-husband team Charlie and David McLoughlin have thrown open the doors to Sweet Charlie’s.

They are based at 21-22 Newport High Street - in what used to be a bar and venue.

In the cafe, there are crepes, ice cream, waffles and coffee and the couple promise a 'very different' dining experience.

Running alongside, is a business selling boquets - but forget the blooming flowers. These are bunches of chocolate.

Charlie and David, who have made their names in hospitality on the Island, are also planning to reward those who have helped others.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Charlie said: "We’ve been planning this development for around three years now.

"We have pulled together our combined knowledge of what customers are looking for and what makes a great experience.

"We’re excited that we can start to deliver this."

The pair want to use Sweet Charlie’s to recognise kind Islanders who have gone above and beyond, through the coronavirus pandemic, or simply by being kind and considerate.

Charlie said: "We have launched Nominate A Neighbour, where people can tell us about the helpful things that someone has done.

"We will select a different deserving Islander from those nominations each week and recognise that kindness with a treat from Sweet Charlie’s."

Those treats will vary - from family dining to bouquets of chocolate, or other sweet gifts.

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