A bakery and coffee shop opened it’s doors in Chalford for the first time on Saturday.

Scrumptious Coffee Shop, located where Fish-In used to be, sells fresh cakes and bread and homemade pies and lasagnes.

Nigel Foster opened the shop with his business partner, Alison Richards, after running the Ship Inn at Brimscombe for four years.

“I’ve been wanting to do it for quite a few years because I feel there is a real need up here, especially now, to get the community together and to get them what they need,” said Mr Foster, who has worked in the catering industry since he was 15.

The Ship Inn closed last October, after repeated lockdowns made the business untenable for Mr Foster.

Despite the economic climate during the pandemic, he was optimistic about the coffee shop.

“I think when you work with the community they’ll support you as much as you support them, so I do strongly believe we’ll get through this tough time,” he said.

He and Alison have stocked the shop with convenience goods like washing powder, tea and coffee as well as locally sourced ingredients like free range eggs from Farwood Farming in Horsley and Cotswold Honey.

They specialise in meeting dietary requirements such as dairy or gluten free.

The duo have also featured gifts by Chalford and Stroud artisans, such as Any Event sanitiser pouches, Calico and Corn face masks and George Roberts handmade gifts.

They are open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm for takeaway, but they will deliver to vulnerable people who are shielding.

Customers can ring in advance on 01453 884388 before picking something up.