A CAFE owner in Dumbarton has described it as a “miracle” to be celebrating their 30th anniversary in the town.

Helen Mackenzie decided to start Scruples in 1992 when she couldn’t get anything to eat on her lunch breaks while she was a hairdresser.

She told the Reporter: “I used to have a hairdressers across the road. We couldn’t get anything decent to eat along Dumbarton East or anywhere at that time so I decided to open a coffee shop.

“At the time, the retail park didn’t exist, the supermarkets weren’t there and there were no coffee shops or eating places.”

However, Helen explained that it hasn’t been plain sailing owning the coffee shop and they have had to overcome hurdles.

She continued: “We pride ourselves on being great value for money and being transparent. We have evolved over the years to what the shop is now, but we have been through hard times.

“I would say it is a miracle we are still here because of everything that has been thrown at not only us, but any small business in the town.

“There has been roadworks on Glasgow Road, surviving the pandemic and now the cost-of-living crisis.”

To mark the anniversary Helen and her staff had a private celebration at the weekend, but are hosting a raffle for the customers in the cafe for the chance to win one of five £20 vouchers.

She also wants to send a clear message to her customers and staff who have supported her throughout the three decades.

Helen added: “I want to say a huge thank you to all the customers who have visited the shop over the last 30 years.

“I am very fortunate to have some loyal customers who value the team and what they do. It really does mean a lot.

“My staff already know how much they mean to me. Each and every one of them are amazing and I couldn’t do it without them. They are a real credit to me.”

Previously the Reporter told how the Scruples team raised money for their “larger than life” employee Christine Rogers who passed away from a stroke last year.

Christine Rogers was a huge part of the Scruples team

Christine Rogers was a huge part of the Scruples team

At the time Helen said: “We had the same staff for years and Christine was a key part of our team so it was a huge shock to hear of her passing.

“She was larger than life. She knew everybody and all their orders.

“The customers didn’t have to ask for anything as with Christine it was usually in front of them and the banter that went with it.”