THE new owner of the Queen’s Hall cafe in Hexham is hoping to attract new customers by providing a luxurious afternoon tea service.

Owner Jevon Scudamore (37), from Haydon Bridge, is hoping to use his finely-honed baking skills to create a cafe experience the Queen’s Hall has long been yearning for.

The Queen’s Hall space has changed ownership several times over the years, and applicants were invited to submit a menu for consideration.

It was his variety of cakes, scones and sandwiches, on offer at his popular Jevon’s Cakes business, that won the Queen’s Hall management team over.

The cafe, which has been open for four weeks, currently employs three full-time workers, but hopes to expand after Christmas.

“We’re aiming to become ‘the place’ for afternoon tea in Hexham – providing a service that is more than just coffee,” Jevon said.

Despite working at Hexham Abbey Cafe when it first opened in 2014, Jevon’s coffee knowledge is still a work in progress.

And whether it’s the coffee or menu recommendations, Jevon is taking every bit of advice on board.

He explained: “We’re using Red Box coffee, which was recommended to me by a good friend.

“Since we’re still in the early stages, we welcome any constructive criticism from customers.

“We want to attract people who wouldn’t always come to the Queen’s Hall for coffee to show them what we have on offer.”

In doing so, Jevon also wants to improve his knowledge of all sides of the business.

He added: “When I first got here, there was a lot of work to be done, and we’re all still learning, but I have been unbelievably well supported by the Queen’s Hall team and the public.”

Vouchers for pre-booked afternoon tea are currently on sale. They can be bought by visiting the cafe or calling the Queen’s Hall on (01434) 652477.