
After years of creating connections, serving the community, and filling the air with the aroma of fresh coffee and baked goods, the volunteers and team at the Pump & Grind Café at Brentford Museum are bidding a heartfelt farewell. Reflecting on the memories, growth, and friendships formed within these walls, it’s clear that the café has been more than just a place to grab a coffee — it’s been a hub for joy, learning, and togetherness.
Virginia: Two Years of Connection and Teamwork
For Virginia, volunteering at Pump & Grind was about more than the tasks — it was about the people and the shared experiences. “It’s easier as a team,” she says, recalling the camaraderie that made every day rewarding. From working the till to coffee-making, and cooking in the kitchen, she reflects fondly on the delicious soups and cakes she made with her team.
Her favorite memory? The simplicity of creating a perfect tomato soup — a recipe as warm as the friendships she’s formed. Virginia cherishes the relationships she’s built with colleagues like Jason and Sarah, who she describes as clever and kind, and Yusuf, whose kindness and gentleness left an impression.
“Meeting people like Musical Mark and Molly the author made our days fun and fantastic,” Virginia says. The museum, with its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, was not just a workplace but a home away from home, where she even hosted family lunches and made memories to treasure.
Thomas: First Steps Into Working Life
Thomas joined the café just five months ago, but his time here has been transformative. “This has been my first real working-life experience,” he shares. In the kitchen and café, Thomas learned barista skills, baking, cooking, and even the essential health and hygiene practices needed to thrive in hospitality.
“The museum itself is quirky and brings in people from all walks of life,” Thomas says, adding that its role in preserving history and educating the community is vital. He hopes the museum will continue to thrive and receive the funding it deserves to modernize and expand its offerings.
The people, though, have made his experience unforgettable. “It’s been wonderful working with Sukhraj, Hannah, Virginia, Karen, and David,” he reflects.
Sukhraj: Growth, Confidence, and Community
Sukhraj’s year of volunteering has been a journey of personal growth. “I’m more confident now that I’ve worked here,” she reflects. Meeting a diverse range of customers, from parents with young children to local community members, has been both fun and inspiring.
She fondly recalls being part of carers’ sessions hosted by Our Barn Communities with Nazia, Joy, and Karen, as well as watching her team grow in confidence each week. “The team has been amazing — Thursdays were always a highlight,” she says, laughing as she remembers David’s cheerful singing in the kitchen that kept spirits high.
Looking Back with Gratitude
As the Pump & Grind Café closes its doors, the volunteers reflect on what the space has meant to them and the wider Brentford community. It wasn’t just a café — it was a place of learning, laughter, and connection.
Virginia, Thomas, and Sukhraj all agree on the café’s vital role within the museum and the local area. It brought people together, educated visitors on Brentford’s history, and created a warm and welcoming space for all.
While this chapter is closing, the memories will remain. The lessons learned, the friendships formed, and the impact made will continue to inspire everyone who was part of this journey.
A Fond Farewell
To all the volunteers, staff, visitors, and supporters of Pump & Grind Café: thank you. You’ve made this space extraordinary. Though the café is closing, the legacy of what was built here will carry on in the hearts of everyone involved.
Here’s to the memories — and to the future.

