A sad day in Seaham’s trading history arrives this week when Valente’s calls it a day after 106 years in town.
The cafe will close on Saturday, August 29, when Sue Dugan retires after running the business with her sister Maria Blain.
It was founded in 1920 by Frank and Carmela Valente, who brought their home-made ice creams to Seaham when they opened a parlour in Viceroy Street.
The business has operated at two locations since then and was passed down to Frank and Carmela’s granddaughter, Sue Dugan.
Now, as the last days arrive, we took a poignant look back at scenes from the archives as we say a fond farewell to Valente’s.
1. Billy enjoys a 2020 treat
Billy Matthews enjoyed a slice of cake at Valentes Cafe in 2020, especially as it was served by his daughter Susan Dugan. | se
2. Brewing a 2020 memory
Raising a cuppa to the lifting of lockdown restrictions in 2020. Tell us if you loved a trip to the shop back then. | se
3. Billy's reflections
Valentes celebrated 100 years in business in 2020 and Billy Matthews reflected on those times. | se
4. Back after lockdown
Susan Dugan was delighted to be back with her regular customers on Church Street after lockdown restrictions were eased in 2020. | se