LAZONBY has become a “social hot spot” with the creation of a coffee shop and factory outlet in the village.

Bells of Lazonby’s latest venture was introduced on Saturday mornings in the run-up to Christmas as an experiment. Products such as bread, scones, rolls and cakes were sold at reduced prices at the company’s new head office in the village.

But it will now continue for the foreseeable future after it proved a success. “Numbers are increasing week on week. We have been absolutely bombed out,” said managing director Michael Bell. “It has not only become a draw for people to buy cheaper but it has also become very sociable as well.

“There was nowhere in the village before to get a cup of coffee. Now the great thing is, being in the village, that it has provided Lazonby with a focal point. Everybody, from young families to the elderly generation, are turning up to enjoy a cappuccino or a latte.”