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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
National
Sian Traynor

Heartfelt Edinburgh tributes pour in for popular cafe owner after sudden death

An Edinburgh cafe and B&B has confirmed it will be closed for the "foreseeable future" after its owner tragically passed away just days before Christmas.

The Ravenous Beastie in South Queensferry issued a heartbreaking update to all of their customers this week after owner Moira Cunningham, 68, passed away suddenly on December 23.

Moving to South Queensferry in the 1990s, Moria had opened the business in 1997, and had been running the unique and popular cafe for over two decades.

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Her family told Edinburgh Live: “Moira created a more than a business that stood the test of time, the Ravenous Beastie was a fairy-tale created by Moira on the high street and she shared what was her home to those who were curious about Scotland but she also loved nothing more than the locals popping in, it was her life and passion.

"She was a fierce advocate of local business and supported and recognised how hard it was to run a business so for being on high street for over 25 years is a testament to her incredible work with the Ravenous Beastie.

Moira had been running Ravenous Beastie since 1997 (Supplied)

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"We are so grateful for all the support from the local businesses and friends of Moira, it’s been comforting to us during this time.”

Sharing their sadness at the news, many local residents and business owners have paid tribute to Moira, with many remembering her from their stay at the hotel as well as her previous work at the historic Hawes Inn.

Speaking online, one local resident wrote: "RIP Moira. A marvellous lady and very welcoming and helpful. Ravenous Beastie was always my favourite stop."

The cafe was known for its unique 'wee beasties' (Supplied)

Another wrote: "So sorry to hear this sad news. Moria was a lovely lady and we were always made to feel special when we stayed in the Ferry."

A third said: "Our condolences to her family and all that knew her, what a lovely lady Moira was."

Confirming the closure of Ravenous Beastie will be for the "foreseeable future", the business added that anyone with an upcoming booking should refer to their website for further information. Moira's funeral arrangements will be issued on social media in due course.

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