WE couldn't have chosen a worse day for our visit to Pickering. It was throwing it down, but what luck! There was a parking space directly opposite Co-oplands.

This venue shares an entrance with the retail bakery. Behind a screen and through wrought-iron swing gates lies a light, bright, self-service caf. The menu covers snacks for the entire day.

Our visit coincided with mid afternoon so a pot of tea would be most welcome. But what else?

Ann decided that a toasted cheese and pineapple sandwich in white bread (£2.10) would satisfy her. When it arrived it was hot, attractively garnished and very much to her liking. With some persuasion she also tried a vanilla slice with fresh cream. Another winner, but bang went the diet for another day.

Because it was generally cold and miserable I thought the tomato soup (£1.45) would be a warmer. It was all finished. Pate and toast (£2.60) then. Also all gone! Perhaps the garlic mushroom omelette (£2.65) would make a nice change. Clearly this was not to be my day as this item too was off. Reluctantly, following Ann's lead. I ordered a toasted brown sandwich of bacon and cheese (£2.20). The bacon was neither salty nor fatty.

To round off my snack I couldn't resist a slab of chocolate-covered flapjack. This was delicious. Our bill came to £7.11.

We were not the only snackers seeking refuge from the downpour. Most were having hot chocolate or coffee. Maybe it was the lateness of the day but I didn't see anyone tackling anything more substantial than our choice.

If the state of the menu demonstrated the popularity of the place then we had chosen well. Although there are other snack spots in Pickering we would have no hesitation in visiting the Secret Garden again. Why the name? I suppose because of the greenery (all artificial) that abounds in the caf. Finally there is wheelchair access and the toilet facilities are good.