A CAFE at a new arts centre has proved so popular it is to open all week.

The Foxlowe threw open its doors to the public in December and more rooms at the landmark building in Market Place, Leek, are gradually being brought back into use.

The three storey Georgian building has been saved after volunteers rallied in support of a fund-raising appeal. The cafe-bar is currently open Wednesday to Sunday and there are now plans to open seven days a week.

Chairman of trustees Peter Kent-Baguley said: "As vital and valuable as volunteers are to the success of Foxlowe, it is essential to have two paid staff to maintain continuity and overall quality control. We urgently need an experienced cook or chef and an experienced cafe-bar person to lead and oversee the front-of-house operation.

"So much has developed in such a short time we can hardly believe it.

"The people of Leek and from further afield have taken the Foxlowe to their hearts."