A village pub is taking steps to serve its community in more ways than one.
The Dun Cow Inn, in Christchurch, Cambridgeshire, has launched a community café to help tackle social isolation and bring people together in a welcoming setting.
Nicola Williams, publican at the Dun Cow, has dedicated a room in the pub to create the café, turning it into a space where residents can meet, build friendships, and enjoy casual conversation over refreshments.
Ms Williams said: "We have the locals coming in for coffee, and groups wanting to use the space for meetings.
"It has been great to welcome new people to the pub and enjoying the café area.
"The community café is already becoming a meeting place that is helping people to overcome social isolation and make connections."
The café serves hot and cold drinks, including tea and coffee, as well as homemade cakes, toasted sandwiches, and cheesy chips, with potatoes sourced from a local farmer.
It is already becoming a focal point for local groups, including a book club and a coffee quiz afternoon.
There are also plans to host the local Knit and Natter group.
The project was made possible through a grant from Pub is The Hub, supported by the Department for Business and Trade as part of the Hospitality Support Fund.
Terry Stork, regional advisor for Pub is The Hub, said: "The Dun Cow Inn is a fantastic pub at the heart of its community.
"The new community café is helping to bring people together and strengthen social connections."
Kate Dearden, Minister for Employment Rights and Consumer Protection, said: "Rural pubs like the Dun Cow Inn are vital to their communities.
"This is exactly why we are working to secure the future of rural pubs with our Hospitality Support Fund."
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