Mansfield business still feeding the town during lockdown

Paul Haywood began Alrate Cheesecakes after starring in popular TV show ‘Culinary Genius’ alongside Gordon Ramsay and had been successfully feeding the masses from Debdale Park Sports & Recreational Club.

He had just increased his team to 10 before coronavirus struck, but is now working alone to try and keep the business afloat while the club is closed.

The 39 year old, from Mansfield Woodhouse, explains the changes he has had to make:

“I was worried how we were going to survive, like all small businesses, so I had the idea of doing contactless collections and deliveries.

“Environmental Health were ringing around businesses to see who was still operating.

“I told them the precautions we were taking, and they were happy.

“I am grateful to be able to continue.”

Paul is taking card payment through closed car windows and delivering cheesecake orders into a customer’s boot, before scrubbing down and donning fresh gloves ready for the next customer.

He has also organised a limited number of deliveries for those unable to leave the house.

You can find out more information via their facebook page.

A spokesperson for Environmental Health said:

“All food businesses can operate as a food takeaway as long as social distancing and safe work practices are followed.

“You can find the full guidance at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-guidance-for-food-businesses/guidance-for-food-businesses-on-coronavirus-covid-19.

“If someone has concerns about a food business in Mansfield, they can be reported to Environmental Health on 01623 463463 or by emailing [email protected].”