A HOSPITALITY lecturer has opened a new community café and taken on nine members of staff, including her own students, thanks to funding and support from the Tees Valley Business service.

Launching in June 2021, The Scene Deli accessed a £10,000 grant to directly support the creation of two new full-time roles, alongside practical advice and support to help develop a business plan and prepare the financial forecasts needed to get the business off the ground.

The Scene Deli, based in Ingleby Barwick, offers a homemade deli service, with a sit-in café serving up fresh, healthy, locally sourced food.

For founder Molook Shaher the business is also a hub for the local community, creating space for local suppliers to showcase their products.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “Small businesses are the lifeblood of our local economy and as we continue to recover from the impact of the coronavirus its more important than ever that our budding entrepreneurs have access to the funding, advice and support they need to start-up, grow and create jobs."