A COFFEE shop has been awarded a grant of almost £40,000 to help with an ambitious expansion programme.

Sweethart Coffee and Cake, in Blackhill, Consett, was given the cash by the Rural Growth Network after it outgrew its original location on Derwent Street.

Director Mark Hart, a former builder who turned his hand to baking following a back injury, said: “The grant has allowed us to the renovating of Sweetharts to a standard that we would not have been able to achieve without the support of the Rural Growth Network.

“We were able to invest in new cooking equipment, and construct high quality walls, ceilings and floor finishes.

“One of the most important aspects that this grant has brought to Sweetharts is a feeling that we are now future proofed and ready to see what the future holds for the business.”