THE first thing that struck us about this venue was how light it appeared. On investigation, we discovered 11 mirrors down one wall.

The second thing we noticed was the speed with which tables were cleared and thoroughly wiped. The same applied to the regular wiping round the serving area.

The specials of the day were lasagne (£5.95) and haddock with chips and peas (£5.65). The other menu items were generally predictable.

Among the salad choices were cottage cheese with pineapple, and crunchy chicken. Both items were priced £4.45.

We were tempted by the savoury pancakes, with a variety of fillings, costing £6.35 to £6.65. Under certain circumstances, a baked potato with Mexican chilli (£4.15) might have been ordered.

However, Ann was attracted to the Yorkshire puddings and gravy (£3). She was not disappointed. Two puddings arrived with a warning that the plate was very hot. Have we encountered a hotter one? I doubt it.

The puddings were declared excellent. It was also most unusual to be asked if she would like some more gravy as the food gradually disappeared. So extra marks for that action.

I liked the sound of the Provencettes which are toasted French baguettes with olive oil and herbs. My choice was the bacon and cheese filling. It was served in a bag with Provencette printed on it, just as the serviette I was given also had this monogram.

Moving on to the sweet course, Ann had seen a fruit tart in the chill cabinet (£2.60) that looked home-made. A generous slice was presented to her with cream.

The filling was apple and blackcurrant that disappointed a little as it tasted like tinned fruit. And how much nicer it might have tasted had the pie been heated.

I chose to skip the special chocolate sponge and had difficulty in deciding between sticky toffee pudding and spotted dick. In the end spotted dick won the day (£2.75). Still harbouring memories of school custard, I was offered ice-cream as an alternative and my selection proved to be a real winner.

Throughout our visit the caf was busy. Cheerful staff served customers promptly and yet there was no feeling of being rushed.

Wheelchair access was good.

Updated: 16:00 Friday, October 29, 2004