A sweet treats establishment in Derry have announced their long-awaited re-opening next week.
Shake n Frappe on Derry's Carlisle Road were badly affected by a kitchen fire in neighbouring Fitzroys Restaurant.
As the fire started below Shake n Frappe, the structural integrity of their floor was under question, as well as everything within the shop becoming seriously smoke damaged.
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After the fire, the future was totally uncertain for the owners Gary and Rachael, but this week they have finally been able to announce when they can open their doors to loyal customers.
In a social media post, Shake n Frappe said: "Yay, we are finally reopening and we have plenty of celebrating to do!
"On Wednesday March 16 we'll be re-opening our doors at noon on Carlisle Road after three worrying months of uncertainty, but we have made it and are now relying on the greatness of the Derry people who have supported us so amazingly in the past to come back and see us again!"
As well as opening in time for St Patrick's Day, Shake n Frappe will be hosting an official family friendly re-opening party.
Rachael told MyDerry: "We are saving our main opening celebrations for the Friday March 18 where we're planning a family day with free face painting and mascots in the shop.
"It has taken a lot longer than we had expected, feeling like we are starting all over again. We had moments where we weren't sure we would ever get open again but we are delighted to finally be at this stage!"
The re-opening party will include free face painting from 1:30pm - 4:30pm, free ice cream, free coffee, free balloons, a lucky dip with prizes to be won, and visits from favourite characters Cocomelon and Minnie Mouse from 1:30pm - 2:30pm and Cookie Monster and Elmo from 3:00pm - 4:00pm.
Shake n Frappe are encouraging all of their loyal customers and new ones to come along next week to enjoy the festivities and celebrate the return of a much-loved business after an incredibly difficult journey.
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