Bison Coffee shop and cafe in Heslington Road, York, closes earlier than planned, reports MAXINE GORDON
A POPULAR York cafe has closed suddenly – days earlier than planned.
Bison in Heslington Road was planning to shut its doors for good on tomorrow – Thursday, August 6.
As reported in The Press, owner Nicholas West was planning to offer a 'pay what you feel' deal to final customers in a bid to sell-off his stock.
However, this week, Nicholas posted on the Bison Instagram account that the cafe would close immediately "due to unforeseen circumstances".
When The Press visited the cafe, it was closed, and a handwritten sign in the window read: "Bison is now closed...due to circumstances beyond our control. Sorry + thank you for 15 wonderful years."
Note in the window of Bison Coffee shop in Heslington Road, York, saying it is now closed. Photo by York Press
Nicholas took over the ownership of the popular coffee spot three years ago; it first opened in 2012 as a cafe-cum-vintage shop.
He told The Press the new owner was likely to change the cafe's name from Bison and give the business a rebrand.
And he revealed another reason for shutting up shop – he is returning to his previous career as a teacher.
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The picture post on Bison's Instagram stated: "We are now closed. Due to unforeseen circumstances. Sorry for any inconvenience and thank you for your custom over the years."
Fans of the coffee shop posted messages of sadness and support.
One wrote: "Devastating news, so many memories in this wonderful cafe."
Another wrote: "So very sorry to read this. You were a great little cafe. Good luck for the future."
Fellow fan offered: "I'm so sorry to hear this! You made the best coffee and your brunch menu was so good! Good luck with whatever you are moving on to and thank you."
Another fan posted: "Enjoy teaching Nick. Hope you have a great technician."
This heartfelt message was also left: "Sorry to hear this. Will be sadly missed as friendly homely coffee stop when in the area."
Nicholas West at Bison cafe on Heslington Road. Photo - York Press
Before opening Bison, Nicholas worked part time as a teacher and also ran the popular YO31 Wood Fired Pizza, selling pizzas from a vintage horse box, often stationed in the Coppergate Centre courtyard.
He said besides returning to teaching he also planned to revive a private catering business.