SAD NEWS!!! Coronation Street star’s wife left ‘crying’ all week after heartbreaking announcement
Simon Gregson and wife Emma Gleave at their cafe Morley’s Tearooms(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Coronation Street star Simon Gregson’s wife shares “I’ve been crying and hugging all week,” as she experiences an emotioinal goodbye.
This marks the last weekend that Emma will preside over the beloved village Morely Tearoom just outside of Wilmslow in Cheshire. She unexpectedly announced her departure earlier this month after a rewarding three-year tenure.
Emma, married to Coronation Street icon Simon Gregson, who plays Steve McDonald on the ITV soap, has carved her niche in the locale with her delectable homemade bakes and traditional warmth, earning her place as a local celebrity.
The title “Queen of Cakes” suits her well, having secured the Good Food Awards two years in a row thanks to her culinary delights.
But it’s not just a customer base she’s created; the tearoom feels like a family hub, where familiar faces are met with Emma’s recognisable cheer as she adeptly juggles tasks in the modest kitchen.
Emma Gleave is set to leave her café after three years (Image: MEN)
Gifts stack up on the welcome desk, while walls display earnest cards filled with heartfelt “thank you” and “sorry you’re leaving” messages.
Laughing off the overwhelming show of affection, Emma admits: “This is nothing, you should see my house, it’s like a florists,” before confiding, “It’s been amazing the outpouring of love… but I said to Simon I actually can’t wait for Sunday now because I’ll be glad to stop crying!”
As each customer prepares to depart, they rush to Emma for a comforting hug, imploring her to keep them updated via text or email about her next adventure.
Emma has found herself creating a book to record the contact details of all those keen to stay updated on her future endeavours.
Emma shares: “We have loads of regulars, people who always go to the same table. Everyone knows it’s my final week and it’s been so humbling.
“There have been hugs and tears – grown men have been crying on me. Adam who works for me here, he’s only 21 bless him, and he said ‘what’s going on? It’s just a tearoom’ but it’s more personal than that, it’s a community here, I know everyone, it’s so sad.”
Coronation Street star Simon Gregson and wife Emma who is preparing for her final weekend in charge of Morley Tearooms in Wilmslow(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Despite garnering a devoted customer base, Emma is perplexed about her departure. Her recent announcement stated that the lease renewal terms failed to align with her objectives.
She had aspired to continue her operations until summer’s end, yet she discloses being compelled to exit much earlier than anticipated, specifically by June 29.
Morley Nurseries, the proprietors of the tea room, have confirmed the establishment will shut down for a fortnight starting Monday for refurbishments, and then reopen under new management “with a new look and feel” come Friday, July 12.
Regarding what lies ahead for Emma, she’s got her hands full sifting through an influx of 400 emails and propositions concerning potential new locations. She resides in Wilmslow with her partner Simon and their three sons.
Simon Gregson and wife Emma Gleave are set for their final day at the tearoom this weekend (Image: MEN)
It seems like she’s nearly sorted with a new spot to move her talents, and she’s promising to share that news as quick as you like (and she assures it’ll be just around the corner).
With a chuckle, she admits: “It’s going to take me four weeks just to email everyone.”
For now, though, she’s looking forward to a well-earned rest. No more rising at the crack of dawn every day to whip up her famous treats which have locals lining up down the street.
Her version of the classic Victoria Sponge has become a bit of a local legend. You truly have to taste it to appreciate its splendor.
It’s hardly surprising that amidst hordes of customer comments, many are already saying: “We’ll follow your Victoria Sponge anywhere”.
While Emma’s chatting, her husband Simon is round the back in the car park getting everything shipshape, and he’s got his own take on the big move.
Emma is known as the “Queen of cakes” among the locals (Image: Manchester Evening News)
Simon remarks: “It’s the community more than anything, people say they come in and just wanted one of those hugs from her. It’s very special what she’s created.”
And about his part in the operation? He gleefully jokes: “I’m out here doing the tip runs, I’m just the general lackie!”
Emma anticipates that her last day this Sunday will be filled with plenty of emotion. They’ve got a send-off bash in the works, complete with a performance from an offering customer.
