IT is hoped a new cafe will help to encourage community spirit in a Worcestershire village.

The new EcoCafe at The Fold in Bransford, is being described as a place to meet in a cheerful atmosphere, somewhere to tuck into quality local whole foods and enjoy village life.

First over the threshold of the new cafe, which opened on Wednesday were Cecil and Pat Dee. "We've waited for this a long time" said Mrs Dee, who has lived in Bransford for 52 years. "Over the years, I have seen the local village wither and die. Now we will have somewhere to go which will bring life to the community".

Mr Dee first set foot inside the building, which now houses the EcoCafe, in 1945. He was 15 years old and had just started work on New House Farm as a waggoners' boy.

"I've seen many changes on the farm since I was a lad," he said. "There was tending the hop fields, working with the animals, then working on the nursery. I walked to work every day of my life, I know exactly how many steps it is to my house - now I can walk to the cafe, see my friends and keep in touch with what's happening."

Coinciding with the opening of the cafe was the unveiling of a striking new sculpture, called Woodland Spirit.

The bronze tree with a human figure forming the trunk has been created by Sarah Cotterill, who said the work represents the need to co-exist with Nature. The Fold, which is a former foal yard at the farm, is run by local farmer Will Tooby, his wife Jane Cox, Rachelle Wolfe and Tom Jardine. For information call 01886 833422.