A popular charity-run café has shut its doors after announcing the abrupt closure last week.

The Olive Tree Café, located inside Manor Garden Centre in Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, has been a safe space for people struggling with mental health problems to work.

But they were forced to announce the closure after the unexpected burnout of the café’s drains and pumps, with manager Phyllida Richards admitting she was not certain if or when the café would reopen.

Phyllida told the Adver last week that the future of the café would depend on the landlord to fix the drains and pipes.

She said: “At the moment we have the overwhelming feeling that 100-plus volunteers and staff who are part of the Olive Tree, a place they go to feel safe, that’s part of their routine and that is part of their sense of worth, are without it.

“So, we are doing everything we can to keep the heartbeat of the café going.”

People took to social media to share their shock and disappointment and a fundraiser was set up on July 25, with an initial target of £750.

Less than 24 hours after the GoFundMe was posted, those who cherish the café had been generously donating, exceeding the target and increasing it to £900. 

In a Facebook post on July 26, they said: “Our light has gone out for good at The Manor Garden Centre. We are devastated. This has been our second home and our family for so many of us for 13 years.

“You can help us rebuild. We are looking for a place to trade, create a cookery school and bakery that we know our volunteers and staff need. We appreciate every message of support we have had from our customers and our friends.”

One person commented: “There must be somewhere out there and a company that can help - this is just wrong.”

Another said: “This is a sad, sad day for all who volunteer and our community, Olive Tree is at the heart of this community and feels like our heart has been broken. There must be a way to save this precious place and continue the life changing work that takes place here. We need a protest movement.”

“This is such sad news, the best café in Swindon! I hope you manage to find another venue soon," said another commenter.