A DAWLISH residential home is opening its doors to the community.

Sefton Hall, in Plantation Terrace, has welcomed guests to its new community cafe.

Mayor of Dawlish Cllr Rosie Dawson officially opened the cafe, which is in the home’s summer house, with owner Geoffrey Cox.

MP Anne Marie Morris was also at the launch of the cafe which will be free to the public every Thursday morning between 10am and 11.30am.

Sefton Hall, in Plantation Terrace, has welcomed guests to its new community cafe.
(Photo by Bob Simpson)

Called Forget Me Not, the cafe’s official opening included a barbecue, cream tea and Country and Western style entertainment from Geoffrey’s own band.

Singer George Williams also performed during the afternoon while there was more entertainment from a Punch and Judy show.

Sefton Hall, in Plantation Terrace, has welcomed guests to its new community cafe.
Sefton Hall, in Plantation Terrace, has welcomed guests to its new community cafe. (Photo by Bob Simpson)

Activities co-ordinator Lisa Burge explained: ‘This is a chance for us to give to the community.

‘We had already converted the summer house into a cafe for our residents.

‘But this concept is that once a week we are inviting everyone in the community to come along.

‘Anyone who is feeling lonely or fancies a chat and a mingle can come and the plan is to have a speaker every week.

‘It’s a chance to meet people.’

Home made cakes will be on offer, all free of charge. The idea came after manager Gabriela Ogreanu visited a similar cafe in Wells and thought the concept would work in Dawlish.

► Photos by Bob Simpson.