A new cafe has opened its doors - and it's a real family affair.

Cafe Marada 39 has taken over premises on Corn Street formerly occupied by Gelato 39 dessert parlour.

Owner Jose "Betto" Goncalves is running the cafe with his sister Tania while his wife Donna is supporting 'behind the scenes.'

Mr Goncalves said: "For years I have worked in the catering industry working my way up to head chef but my dream has always been to open my own café."

And the head of the family was the inspiration for them pursuing their dream.

He said: "My family are from Madeira and my father was the heart and soul of the family until his passing.

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"I vowed that I would open a café in his name and that is where Marada comes from, Marada is our family nickname."

Mr and Mrs Goncalves, who live in Alvescot, took the plunge after seeing that the gelateria had vacated the site.

Gelato 39 opened in May 2022 but in March owner Rasel Rahman announced the business had ceased trading.

He said on Facebook he had 'decided to take some extended time away from the hustle and bustle of business life' after welcoming a baby boy.

Now the premises is back in business and buzzing again.

Mrs Goncalves said: "Our dream was to open a cafe to set our children up with somewhere they feel welcome and are able to one day come and help out.

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"We have two children with special needs in our family and both have limited diets so we are aware of how difficult it can be to eat out." 

The cafe is currently serving all-day breakfast, coffee and tea, freshly made sandwiches baguettes and paninis with fillings from the menu and to order.

The kitchen is still under construction and more items will be added to the menu in the coming months.