FORGET about being hip and cool, a new cafe in Oxford city centre is appealing to the 'geeks' among us – with the offer of board games and comics.

Newlyweds Matthew Wellington and Andra Gheorghe opened their business Geek Retreat on New Inn Hall Street, and are on a mission to share their 'love for all things geeky'.

The gaming café invites all those who love board games, Pokémon, and comics to settle in and enjoy the relaxed environment.

Ms Gheorghe said: “We opened last Saturday, and we have immediately felt very welcome.

“The response has been really amazing, especially from the big magic societies in the city who are already meeting here regularly.”

The couple, who live in Northampton, met on an online dating app three years ago, and immediately connected over their love of board games.

They chose to open their store in Oxford, because they loved the busy streets and atmosphere.

“Oxford is amazing, it’s gorgeous, it’s got a big gaming community, and obviously the university is only going to improve that,” Ms Gheorghe said.

The business has connected with several independents across the city, including a bakery, coffee bean supplier, and a comic book artist to ensure that local businesses are supported throughout their venture.

Mr Wellington said: “Andra is a trained barista [coffee maker], and her dream has always been to open a board game coffee shop.

“I couldn’t get her that, so I got her a franchise that has board games instead.

“I am a trained salesman, so that’s how we split ourselves; Andra is the manager of the café section and I do the selling.”

Geek Retreat is spread over two floors, with many tables in a 'deceivingly' spacious room upstairs for those wanting to stay and play games.

The café, which is part of a larger franchise, operates on a ‘fair use policy’ – visitors are encouraged to purchase food and drink while they are gaming at the venue.

The pair are now waiting for students to rush back in September, to hit their target market goals.

Mr Wellington added: “I have a feeling over the next few weeks we will get even busier because of the students.

“They are our main target and anything like this will attract students.”

The pair received the keys to the site just two weeks ago, however, have already completely re-decorated the store in bright purple and yellow colours, decked out with oil paintings from local artists and Ms Gheorghe’s mother.

The store is open from 9am every day until 11pm at night.

Despite the long hours, the couple is excited to take on the challenge.

Ms Gheorghe added: “I can’t think of any better job.”

Geek Retreat is on New Inn Hall Street, Oxford.