Burnley sandwich bar Peckish giving back to community with donation of 30 free meals a month
The day her son Frank asked her if they could bob into a sandwich shop for a quick snack, while out on an errand, was the day that changed Maria Perry’s life.
Keen for a career change, graphic designer Maria had goosebumps when she saw the ‘for sale’ sign at the former Remis sandwich shop in Burnley’s Rosegrove.
“It was a lightbulb moment, “ said Maria. “I just knew instinctively this was something I could do as I have previous experience in the catering industry and I love cooking and working with the public.”
Maria put her plan into action, and in August, Peckish opened. Very much a family affair, Maria’s 23-year-old daughter, Olivia Thornton, works with her along with her mum, Teresa Ayling. Maria and Teresa previously ran their own business together in charge of the catering at the former Mullard’s Club.
At 79, Teresa is not ready to retire yet and works two mornings a week. She bakes in the shop her own recipe cheese and onion pies that are a hit with the customers, along with the freshly made sandwiches, pies and cakes. Maria said: “The business is doing really well, we already have many loyal customers who come in all the time, it’s always busy, I love it.”
Maria recently launched the Peckish Pot. Each month she puts away a certain amount of money for 30 meals to help out anyone who may be struggling with bills, the elderly and those who have fallen on hard times. Customers have also contributed to the pot and the meals are distributed by Vivien Storey and the other volunteers at Padiham based The Hub.
Maria added: “I knew for the off that I wanted to give something back to the community and this is my way of doing just that.”