A COUPLE want to turn a former town centre butcher’s shop into a not-for-profit greengrocery and cafe.

Helen Cooper and Joe Godden, both 53, hope to employ those unable to find work elsewhere and plan to make the former Oliver’s store in Canute Place totally accessible for disabled people.

The couple, who live in Warren Avenue, would also like to install internet computer terminals and invite local organisations to use their premises after-hours.

“Knutsford lacks quite a number of facilities and resources for people who are disadvantaged,” said Mr Godden.

“It’s always a challenge for people who have difficulties to access the job market and it will be even more difficult now there’s a recession.”

Both Mr Godden and Ms Cooper have experience in social and health care, and Mr Godden saw similar social enterprise ventures in other parts of the country.

He said there would be the equivalent of three full-time workers plus part-time and work experience employees.

Workers might include those on incapacity benefit or disabled people. “We are looking to help those people in Knutsford and not have them getting a bus to Northwich or Wilmslow,” said Mr Godden.

“Some people might be behind the scenes peeling carrots and others would be serving or waiting on.”

No deal has been yet been signed to move into the Canute Place store.

But Mr Godden said it would be ideal because it was one of the few places in town that could be made disabled-friendly because of its wide adjoining pavements.

The couple have spoken to Tim Loosemore, who uses a wheelchair and writes a column for the Knutsford Guardian, for advice and he is now working on a steering committee for the project.

“I’m impressed that someone has finally had the foresight to seek the input of a disabled person before ploughing ahead with an idea,” said Mr Loosemore.

Mr Godden, who will deal with much of the financial side of the business, said he did not yet know when the shop could open, but said the cost of setting up in Knutsford had not been a deterrent.

“It does mean you have to have a harder business head,” he said.

“This thing will have to pay for itself, although there may be some grants and subsidies. I do genuinely think this could be an asset to Knutsford.”

Anyone who wants to help with the project can call Mrs Cooper on 01565 634560.