CUPPAS and cakes were served up for the final time at a popular Gourock coffee shop as it closed its doors after 10 years.

Loyal customers at Cupcake Corner shed tears as they bid owner Fiona McGrory an emotional farewell.

The 53-year-old, who is retiring, says she will sorely miss the coffee shop.

She told the Tele: “I had no idea what this shop meant to so many people.

“One girl said it was the go-to place if you ever had a problem.

“Even if schoolchildren lost their dinner money they could always come in here.

“Over the years we’ve had marriages, births, deaths, pregnancies, people fainting, you name it.

“It makes me feel quite emotional.”

Fiona says that over the years, the customers became like her family.

She added: “It was more than just a wee coffee shop.

“Everybody who came in here were more than just friends.

“It was lovely to see the wee primary school children grow up and come back in when they were in secondary school.

“I’ve always run the shop as an extension of my house where people can sit round the table with a pot of tea.”

Fiona says her late parents Moira and Malcolm loved to visit the coffee shop.

She said: “My mum and dad used to come down every single day.

“All the customers knew me, but they also knew my mum and dad.

“Sadly they passed away within two years of each other, it was really sad.

“It was lovely to have the shop as it gave them a real interest in the later part of their lives.

“I opened the shop on my dad’s 70th birthday and I’m closing on what would’ve been their 60th wedding anniversary, so it’s quite poignant.”

On Fiona’s last day her customers flocked to the shop to say goodbye.

Tracey Bell, a friend and customer, wished her well.

She said: “We’re so sad she’s going but she deserves to enjoy her retirement.”

Alex Black added: “She’s always so happy and used to sing all the time.

“She always had a smile for everyone.

“I’ll really miss her.”

Fiona, who lives in Wood Street, says she’s looking forward to retiring alongside her husband Andy, 55.

She said: “I’m looking forward to spending time with my family.

“I have a sister who lives in Dollar and Andy has got family in Plymouth.”

Fiona, who thanked all her customers, has sold the shop but it’s not yet known what it will be changed to.

She added: “It’s not going to be Cupcake Corner, I don’t know what it’s going to be.”