ENJOYING a moment of peace and stepping away from the hustle and bustle of daily life is what one new business is offering.

Moments Cafe, in Barnard Castle, has just opened in the Market Place.

Owner Carly Payne, 38, says it has always been her dream to open her own cafe and when she heard the premises was coming up for lease, she grabbed the opportunity with both hands.

The mum-of-three offers a selection of tea, coffee, drinks and homemade cakes which she bakes on site.

And after struggling to find coffee shops that catered for herself and her daughter, who cannot have dairy, she also offers a range dairy-free, gluten-free and vegan-friendly cakes as well.

The cafe has two floors with a range of seating and also a children's play den which makes use of the building's unusual nooks and crannies.

There is also a buggy park and baby changing facilities.

Mrs Payne, of Barnard Castle, said: "It's called Moments because people can come for a moment to have good coffee, cake and time out from the world.

"It's really relaxed and family-friendly."

The cafe officially opened on May 11 and Mrs Payne said she had had a great welcome.

The cafe is open Tuesday to Thursday from 10am until 4pm and 10am until 6pm on Fridays and Saturdays. For the Bank Holiday and half term alternative opening hours will be 9.30am until 6pm on Friday and Saturday and 9.30am to 5pm Sunday to Thursday.For more information search for Moments Cafe on Facebook or call 07747104019.