A MUCH-LOVED cafe has been put on the market after the owner decided the time is right to sell.

Angela Wilson, owner of Small World Cafe in Hexham, is selling her beloved business after eight years.

Angela claims it is the 'right time'' as she wants more time with her family and hopes to sell to someone with 'fresh ideas'.

Although it is on the market, it will remain open until it is sold.

The property's annual rent is £27,000 and it has been labelled by the estate agent as a 'well-established business’ in a prime location. It is also well-renowned with tourists and locals.

The business has also been featured in ITV's Vera, when Hexham was turned into the fictional town of Bentham.

Explaining her decision, Angela said: “We are putting the cafe up for sale now as the time has come to for us to think about our work-life balance.

"When we bought the cafe, the kids were little, and the cafe fitted in well with them at that age.

"Now they are older, we would like to have a few more holidays with them without worrying about the cafe whilst away.

"It felt like the right time as the lease is coming to an end, so it's time to hand over to a new owner who can come in with fresh ideas.

"I have many wonderful memories from the cafe - I will always treasure the regulars who come in on set days with a smile, joke and a bit of banter. Without them, owning the cafe wouldn't have been as enjoyable.

"I get so attached to them that if I don't see them, I worry if they're OK. They're my cafe family.

"My next steps are really to slow down, enjoy life more, spending time with the kids and enjoying family holidays.

"I would like to thank my regulars who keep the cafe going day in, day out as they are there come rain or shine to enjoy their cuppa and cake or a delicious breakfast.

"I would also like to thank all the holidaymakers who seek out the cafe for their visit. It's great meeting people from all over the country and world.

"I will miss everyone who comes in the cafe, I have seen babies born and growing up, young staff joining me as a young teenager, going off to university, then coming back to work for me... there have been a few losses along the way but all are remembered and many lifelong friends made."