TWO granddaughters suggested we visit this venue. Apparently they had been taken there by their other grandparents. So what did we find? From the outside, the premises give the impression of being a shop. Both windows are fitted out with display units.

Once inside I noticed the engraved glass panel on the door 'Watchmaker & Jeweller'. On inquiry I discovered the caf had existed for 30 years but the watchmaker went back to the 1890s.

The venue was busy yet the sole waitress coped effortlessly. We were given time to peruse the menu. But what to choose?

A pot of tea (£1.80) was a must. This arrived with hot water and fresh milk. Although sugar was the packeted variety, we were fascinated by the shape. Trihedron!

Ann homed in on the hot selection. A tomato and bacon roll (£2) would do her well. I expected it to look like a sandwich but it was presented open. One half had piping hot tomato, the other laden with bacon some of which found its way to my plate! Ann was delighted with her choice. My freshly-prepared cheese and pineapply sandwich (£2.45) preceded two toasted crumpets (80p). All were excellent.

Ann inspected the cake cabinet and did not regret selecting a slice of coffee cake with caramel icing and walnuts. Real value at £1.

Despite the foot and mouth restrictions, it was encouraging to see that Pickering was busy. And having paid £8.05 for this snack we were delighted that our granddaughters had developed a taste for quality and value.

15/9/01