ANN was pursuing another activity when the need for refreshment got the better of me! We had attempted to review this venue last month but found it closed.

From the outside, the caf appears quite small but there is more accommodation upstairs, as are the toilets.

Five of the downstairs tables were occupied when I entered. The invitation was to take a seat and my order would be taken. Unfortunately I chose a table with a distinct wobble.

A laminated menu contained the usual items; sandwiches (from egg and cress to prawn), paninis, jacket potatoes (£3.20 to £4.75), salads (£5.75), even a full English breakfast (£4.95).

I was within a whisker of ordering the ploughman's platter (£5.75). This consisted of a selection of English cheeses, crisp salad, pickled onions and chutney. However, I was put off by the chutney which I would have passed on to Ann had she been present.

A pot of tea (£1.30) was a must. This gave me almost two large cups and the accompanying milk was fresh and in a jug.

Should I select organic carrot cake or the lemon and blueberry cheesecake, both priced £2.45? The special, cranberry, nut and orange loaf (£1.80), sounded equally appetising.

A bacon and Stilton baguette (£4.95) was just beaten by a bacon sandwich (£3.65). When asked if I could have the bacon well done, the assistant said, "I'll see what we can do". And he did.

While sipping my tea the smell of bacon cooking pervaded. I could feel my taste buds anticipating what was on the way.

A generously filled sandwich arrived in incredibly thick bread. On consulting the menu, I had been warned. It read 'very chunky bread'. Other sandwiches were described as having thick doorstep bread.

The well-cooked bacon was excellent, although as the day progressed I guessed that it had been on the salty side.

Toasted teacakes and homemade scones were available.

So were a range of teas and coffees, including the fast variety. Yes expresso (sic) at £1.40. And as you expect from the caf's name, cappuccino (£1.55).

Staff were prompt to clear and wipe vacated tables. Radio Two played as background music.

Here was a caf that didn't stint on serviettes. They were large in comparison with many we encounter. So for £4.95 I left, a satisfied customer.

Updated: 15:58 Friday, February 17, 2006