The new Mayor of Epsom and Ewell formally opened the borough’s newest coffee shop this week.

Epsom Rock Choir entertained the first visitors to Roots Coffee Shop as Mayor Liz Frost opened it on Thursday (May 25) morning.

Councillor Frost cut a celebration cake during the opening of the shop in the Methodist Church in Ashley Road, Epsom.

In her speech Cllr Frost recalled that the origins of the project date back to 1985 with a small servery offering hot drinks and cakes.

The original café had the intention of providing a welcoming and friendly atmosphere where people could meet and anyone feeling unhappy or lonely would be sure of a warm welcome and a sympathetic ear.

The owners of the new Roots Coffee Shop yesterday vowed to continues to fulfil this original intent but in bright and attractive new surroundings, which includes a play area for children.

Roots Coffee Shop is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 2pm, catering for all ages. The menu includes children’s lunches, vegetarian and wheat-free diets and takeaways are also available.