Elenor McAndrew as pictured by photographer Paul Worpole in the Knutsfordian II exhibition

Cooking up a storm at The Welcome is head cook Elenor McAndrew. The Welcome was started in 1995 by local members of the Methodist Church in Knutsford and has now grown into a fully functioning centre offering a wide range of activities, services and support to the people of Longridge and Shaw Heath.

At the heart of The Welcome is the Cafe, a friendly place where people can sit and chat with friends, find a quiet corner to get a drink and read, or somewhere to come and get a good, hearty, value for money meal.

Elenor, who was born in Singapore on a British Army Base, has lived in Knutsford since she was 11 years old. She spent some years in Canada but is now firmly rooted in the town – and even finds time to be a Knutsford Host.

“I love my job and I like the people that come in,” said Elenor.

“I love the fact I feel like I can give back to the community. This place feels like a family. The people here are so kind and welcoming and I feel proud to be able to make them beautiful food – that means a lot to me!”