Great Cornard couple launches family-orientated gaming lounge in Sudbury

A business in Sudbury, which is planning to transform its current site into a permanent gaming lounge with a retro sweet shop, hosted a successful opening event.

Owners Kris Daly and Claire Cole set up a range of video and online games based out of a unit at the Stour Valley Business Centre in Brundon Lane.

Having run a wide range of services, from electrical repairs to vehicle graphics at D Merch Bay 4, the couple, from Great Cornard, are preparing to wind down its operations to make way for a full-time gaming lounge.

Mr Daly said the new facility will be family-orientated.

“It will be a place where you can bring your children,” he said. “There will be something for everyone.”

While the couple had hoped to establish the venture sooner, they have had other commitments caring for their two-year-old daughter, Millie-Mae, who suffers from Dravet syndrome.

Due to the severity of the condition, which can cause debilitating seizures, the youngster has received extensive medical treatment.

“The last year has been terrible,” said Mr Daly, of Lindsey Avenue. “We have been in and out of Addenbrooke’s Hospital.”

He said the extent of the youngster’s condition had put a big strain on the whole family, including his 13-year-old daughter, Codi, along with 10-year-old twin sons, Olly and Aston.

“It’s had a huge impact on everyone,” he said.

Before Mr Daly set up his own business, he was out of employment due to a knee injury.

After securing a loan from The Prince’s Trust, Mr Daly was able to establish his own business.

“It was quite a life-changing moment,” he said.

After completing the programme, he delivered a series of inspiring talks as a young ambassador.

The gaming lounge will open every Saturday, between 1pm and 6pm, and on Sundays, between 11am and 4pm.