OUT go the checked table cloths and tomato-shaped sauce bottles and in comes the contemporary artwork.

It's an unusual concept, but one that has transformed a Chester-le-Street caff into the town's first art caf.

Gary Collin, owner of Moods, has teamed up with Rhonda Fenwick, of the Kimblesworth Community Arts Project, to create a Mediterranean-style eatery that combines the gastronomic delights of southern Europe with the artistic flair of local contemporary artists.

Gary, 37, explained the concept behind the caf on Front Street: "By putting art on the wall we are making it accessible to the general public.

"The caf itself is based on a Mediterranean idea, with olive oil, white wine vinaigrette, azure blue table cloths and terracotta walls."

Opening as a caf in January, Gary has since teamed up with Rhonda who now acts as curator.

She added: "It is the first opportunity for contemporary artists to have a place to exhibit in Chester-le-Street.

"There are paintings, photographs and glass works and we are hoping to do ceramics at some point, all with a view to opening a gallery eventually."