THE sales were in full swing with shops crowded. Marks & Spencer was no exception. Reaching its first-floor caf, we were confronted with a new logo: 'Relax, Refresh, Revive, Retreat'.

Refurbishment has taken place since our last visit to this venue. The changes are not immediately obvious but I recollect that some seats were set out in booths. These have now disappeared.

Self service was the order of the day. Customers moved swiftly along the counter selecting from packaged and clearly-labelled sandwiches and cakes. Coffee and tea was quickly dispensed. Cash taking and food handling were separated. Full marks for hygiene.

So where to sit? Two avid readers of this column had seen us arrive and kindly retained their table until we were ready to take over. "Hush, of course we are having a working snack!"

Ann's pre-packed four vegetarian sandwich selection (£2.20) contained mature cheddar and celery, mature cheddar and ploughman's, egg and cress and egg with tomato. Her reaction was positive finding the variety of wholemeal, granary and white bread very acceptable.

She was equally delighted with her cappuccino cake (£1.50) and insisted that I try a piece. Yummy!

My pack of smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwiches (£3.25) were excellent. A modicum of lettuce and cherry tomato added to the presentation. Being a sucker for iced Christmas cake (£1.90), I was delighted with my choice, especially as Ann declined a sample!

In summary the quality of the food was exactly what we would expect from M&S.

Although the tables were compact for two we were joined by friend Harvey. He pointed out that we were sitting almost below an air conditioning outlet. This may have accounted for the speed with which our hot chocolate (£1.60) and filter coffee (£1.10) cooled. Or were the wide-topped cups the cause?

Tables were cleared quickly and without fuss.

Revived and refreshed after our snack, we gladly retreated to allow room for other shoppers. But relaxed? No such luck! For me, sales and relaxation could never be bed fellows.

Updated: 14:31 Saturday, January 12, 2002