WE ARE grateful to the many readers who alerted us to this relatively new venue. Run most professionally by volunteers associated with Haxby and Wiggington Methodist church, there is no overt religious connection.

Parking was easy, access for wheelchairs excellent and the welcome warm. The café is well appointed with a mixture of low tables and settees, and tables and chairs of conventional height.

The venue was obviously popular. There were two groups of women lingering over coffee and grandparents entertaining toddlers among the many snackers. Attracted by the menu, we found ourselves having an early lunch before midday.

Tea and most varieties of coffee were available. I noted that not only was there a straight hot chocolate (£1.75), it could be served with cream and marshmallow or ice-cream for an extra 20p.

Food was advertised as being locally sourced and fair-trade whenever possible. Customers order and pay for their choices at the servery, which is then delivered to the table.

The soup of the day (£2.95) was tomato and basil. Ann decided this was for her. Made from fresh tomatoes, it was very thick and also scored by being very hot. The accompanying bread bun and butter also went down well.

I chose a bacon and brie panini (£4.75). This was excellent, with the bacon nicely crisp, although I have to admit using a knife and fork at a low table was a challenge! The garnish was one of the daintiest, yet plentiful, I have encountered for a while.

There were also sandwiches and jacket potatoes on the menu.

Ann ordered a cappuccino (£1.95) at the same time as selecting a chocolate square for herself and a Danish pastry for me (combined cost £2.40). Ann’s verdict was “the nicest tray bake I have had in ages”. I agreed, having been allowed a mouthful. My pastry was excellent.

It was a pleasure to be in such pleasant surroundings. To see the door held open by the male assistant reminded us that old courtesies still exist. The same person was quick to clear and wipe vacated tables. •The address for last week’s review of Il Bertorelli went missing in the editing. It is in Clifford Street, was previously Caffe Uno or, for those with longer memories, Russell’s cycle shop.