Charity reopens iconic cafe in popular beauty spot

Pauline Mack says she is keen to work with other charities to boost wellbeing in the community

A cafe located halfway up a 1,334ft (406.6m) landmark hill in Shropshire has re-opened after being bought by a charity.

The Halfway House cafe on The Wrekin had stood empty for nearly three years before being rescued by the Yellow Ribbon Community Chaplaincy.

The Telford-based charity provides support for people after they have been released from prison.

"This is about helping people find the beauty within themselves, in this beautiful place," Pauline Mack, the charity's chief executive said.

Rose Ayikpah has said seeing the cafe reopen is 'heaven'

She added: "It's so iconic and the only community asset that's open on the Wrekin. We want to work with other charities looking at wellbeing and unlocking potential."

The beauty spot is popular with walkers and those looking to reconnect with nature from across the region.

Cafe manager Rose Ayikpah has said she is thrilled to see the eatery back on its feet.

"It's a really nice place, so when it was open and I was told I would be involved in setting this up, it was heaven," she told BBC Radio Shropshire.

"Everyone that comes here is very happy that we are open again."

The cafe has provided respite for walkers who are trekking the 1,334ft (406.6m) landmark hill

Robert Ford first visited the cafe 70 years ago and has fond memories of the cafe.

He recalled: "I came here to mark the birth of my brother in 1953, we were here, we loved it and I've come intermittently since then.

"Now it's reopened it's a big improvement as it had been dormant for years."