NORTHALLERTON is full of surprises, not least the Young Offender's Institution almost in the centre of the town. However, this week I visited somewhere that is easier to both enter and leave.

Barkers, the prominent store in the High Street, has a separate furniture shop situated to the north of the town on the Richmond Road. Adequate parking is also a plus point.

The upper floor can be accessed by a wide stair or lift and tucked in one corner is the Terrace Caf. The venue had come highly recommended by near neighbours and I was not disappointed. Nor do I think Ann would have been, although on this occasion I snacked alone.

I helped myself to a bowl of carrot and tomato soup (£2.20). So often we find that soup can be less than hot. Not in this case. Described as home-made I had no reason to doubt this claim. A roll was included in the price.

The pre-packed ham and salad sandwich that followed was amply filled with meat, lettuce, tomato and cucumber. At £2.40, it offered good value.

Choosing what I thought was blackcurrant tart (£1.60), I was faced with a puzzle. What exactly were the contents. Blindfolded, I don't believe I could have told, but from inspection I think it contained apple, gooseberry and blackcurrant. This is where Ann's skill would have been invaluable. Nonetheless it was tasty and nicely rounded off my snack.

The caf has a light and airy ambience. Although there were plenty of customers, some tucking in with a knife and fork while others were eating scones and cake, there was no sense of urgency. Robust wooden tables and comfortably upholstered chairs encouraged lingering. No smoking was the order of the day.