A RURAL rest stop has been created by a family which has been in business in Kingsley for around 100 years.

The Gibson family has opened The Mill House Cafe at W&T Gibson Ltd as part of its plan to diversify and offer something new to the community.

Adrian Gibson, director, said: "It's about moving with the times and starting a different venture.

"We decided to open up the cafe to support the rest of the business but also to give local people somewhere to pop in."

Gibson's, based at the old mill house in Mill Lane, between Crowton and Kingsley, sells animal and pet feeds and equestrian supplies and has evolved during the decades from supplying the farming community to catering for pet owners, smallholders and the horse riding community.

The new cafe has created five extra jobs at the business, which already employed 20 people.

It can seat 60 customers with a lawned area outside and serves breakfasts, light lunches, afternoon tea and coffee.

It also has meeting rooms available and is fully licensed.

“We want to offer a place where people can relax, take a few minutes, see the mill pool, the ducks and the surroundings as well as enjoying some great food and drink,” Adrian said.

“A huge effort has been made to source food and ingredients from local producers.

"I think customers will be pleasantly surprised at the quality of products on our menu and what the local area has to offer.

"We would also like to thank the local tradesmen, customers and staff for all their hard work and support while the café was being developed.”