NOT every business is able to open its doors for the first time by welcoming celebrities to the grand opening - but that’s exactly what the Three Shells did.

The beachside café, which is located a stone’s throw away from Southend’s Adventure Island theme park on Western Esplanade, was opened by John Barber and his wife in 1983.

And the owners were able to attract some household names to the south Essex seafront for the eagerly-awaited grand opening as Eastenders stars Arthur and Pauline Fowler - played by Bill Treacher and Wendy Richard respectively - got behind the counter to assist with the first day’s business.

However, times have changed since that historic day for the Three Shells, with Stockvale taking ownership at the end of 2007.

The coronavirus pandemic has caused havoc for business around the globe and it has been no different for the Three Shells.

Echo:

Reopened its doors - the Three Shells has battled through a tough period due to the coronavirus pandemic

James Gibbs, a director at Stockvale, said: “We closed down for close to eight weeks for lockdown.

“When we reopened, we were only operating the takeaway counters as the inside restaurant remained closed for safety reasons.

“During lockdown, we reopened and ran on reduced trade and staff levels, with all the relevant protection and systems in place to keep the staff and customers safe.

“It has been a very rocky time because of the coronavirus pandemic, but hopefully it is all behind us now.”

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The Three Shells has now reopened and the restaurant and takeaway is open daily.

Extra measures have been put in place to make the return of customers possible.

Groups of more than six people is no longer allowed due to the government’s latest guidelines and each visitor must complete a track and trace form on arrival.

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Popular with the customers - the Three Shells offers a range of food and drink options, including the King Kone ice cream

Protective perspex screens have been installed at all payment points to further reduce contact between members of staff and guests, while contactless payment methods are being encouraged.

Socially distanced queuing systems are in place, with floor markings introduced, and extensive cleaning is carried out. Those who have returned to the Three Shells - which boasts a twin restaurant at Sealife Adventure - have also enjoyed a new treat.

James added: “Recently, the takeaway counters have been doing very well with the introduction of our new King Kone ice cream and famous doughnuts that people travel from all over to come back for.”

Every week we will be unveiling our Trader of the Week as we look to champion local businesses across south Essex. You can nominate your own business or somewhere you enjoy visiting now.