Award for Rasen business is bittersweet

That is the question owner Nicky Brooksbank is asking as she enjoys the win.

The award was made by The Central England Business Magazine and Nicky says it came as a complete surprise to her.

“I was speechless when I was told about the award.

“Thank you to whoever nominated.

“It is a very prestigious award - like a Michelin star in the restaurant world; I am really chuffed.

“This is fantastic for our small business and great for Market Rasen too, as it will take the town on to the national and even global stage through the magazine.”

Judging for the award was done ‘under cover’ with anonymous visits made to the Queen Street eatery.

Nicky said: “I obviously had no idea these people had visited; we just provided our usual service, so that is fantastic we were recognised in this way.”

As well as a trophy and certificate, the win will give invaluable business support to Nice and Naughty.

Nicky is also looking forward to attending the social distanced award ceremony, when government guidelines allow.

Nice and Naughty has also made it to the shorlist of ten in the Taste of Lincolnshre Community Business Award, so she has her fngers crossed for that too.

However, while it is all smiles for the win, the ongoing pandemic is causing real concern .

Nicky said: “I was gutted when we were told we couldn’t reopen.

“I understand fully the need to take action on the pandemic, but I just feel the hospitality industry is being punished doubly.

“We have adapted the premises to make it Covid-secure, which proved very successful.

“More recently, we have been doing a limited takeaway, as other businesses are doing in the town, but there isn’t the same business for that sort of service.

“I have come to the point now where I am really struggling.

“December should be a busy time for us; we all make the money on Christmas events to help tide us through the quieter January and February - but that has all gone now.”

Nicky continued: “Our industry is all about people and we miss that contact.

“All local businesses need support now more than ever.

“Please keep on supporting our local businesses; every penny people spent locally makes a huge difference to us.

Nicky added: “It isn’t financially viable for us to do our full take-away at the moment, as we would need to stock up so many ingredients.
“We are currently doing breakfast deliveries on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, which are proving to be very popular.
“We are also continuing with our community meals, which we know have been greatly appreciated, especially by older residents.
“Our Sunday lunches are very popular too.
“All the information about what we have on offer can be found on our Facebook page or call me on 07726 224890