TV presenter Sean Batty brought some star power to a community cafe and shop in Milngavie.
STV’s weatherman spent an afternoon at Gavin’s Mill as part of a campaign to support local businesses.
He served customers and shot a special video for Scotland Loves Local Week, which was released on September 23rd.
Sean, an ambassador for Scotland Loves Local, said: “The great thing about Gavin’s Mill is that it is a community project that supports local people.
“It was started by the community and is run by the community.
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“This is a historic site that has been restored.
“As a community gathering place, it brings people together, creates local jobs, volunteer opportunities and also supports local producers.
“It shows the power of choosing local products and what a difference it can make to the region when we support our friends and neighbors.”
Gavin’s Mill, a former 17th-century flour mill, was revived in 2017 by the charity Gavin’s Mill Community Project.
It is run almost entirely by volunteers and has a fair trade shop, a café and an events room.
Julie Kelly, who heads up retail, marketing and events at the venue, said: “We provide a space for emerging producers – people working in small business units or their kitchens – to help them grow their businesses.
“There is so much entrepreneurship in Scotland. It’s incredible actually. But sometimes it’s so hard for them to get a showcase.
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“That’s what we can offer them here, introduce their product to the community and watch them grow.”
Semi-retired businesswoman Julie Hall, who runs the commercial arm of Gavin’s Mill, said: “We are an important part of the community – a cosy, friendly cafe and people love coming here.”
“We have a small number of paid staff, but without our volunteers of all ages this would not be possible.”
The project is funded by charitable profits and there are plans to expand its community services.
Sue Milne, chair of the Gavin’s Mill Community Project charity, said: “All profits go to the charity, helping us to maintain the mill and look after communities abroad and in East Dunbartonshire.”
Scotland Loves Local Week is organised by Scotland’s Towns Partnership to encourage people to think locally, make local decisions and spend locally.
Tony I’Anson, manager of Milngavie BID, said: “It’s great to see them recognised as part of the Scotland Loves Local initiative, which the community has played a prominent role in promoting since its launch in 2020.”
