A NORTH-EAST coffee spot is the only outlet in the region to be named among the UK’s 50 best coffee shops.

Coolaboola, based in Jesmond Metro station and Newcastle Central Metro station, was named by The Independent in its list of the UK’s premier coffee venues, and was praised for its passion and the knowledge behind each drink served on the premises.

Now, owners Ruairi McGuiness and his wife Lu are hoping their next step can be to become the number one coffee shop in the region.

Mr McGuiness, who opened Coolaboola in 2006, said: “We are all incredibly proud to be featured in this listing of the very best coffee businesses in the UK, as we’re there alongside some truly outstanding venues.

“To the best of my knowledge, this is the first time that a business from the region has been featured in this list.

“We are really delighted to be representing the North- East.

“It’s a great endorsement of the progress that Coolaboola has made to date and is a boost as we continue to develop the business.”

The Independent compiled the list to promote the number of high-quality small coffee businesses in the UK.

Alan Miller, from independent coffee roasters Union Hand Roasted, who helped judge the list, said: “Coolaboola really care about the coffee and are gaining themselves a worthy reputation in the North-East.”