We're highlighting the shortlisted cafes in our competition in the News & Star. Each of the establishments will be featured over ten issues.

The Posting Pot has been nominated by News & Star readers as one of the ten finalists in its 'Best Cafe 2024' award.

The cafe, which is located at the top of Wetheral's village green, is owned by Paul and Liz Blythe, with the pair also recently opening The Melting Pot, an ice cream parlour at the back of their existing business. 

After securing their place in the final ten of the News & Star's 'Best Cafe 2024', Liz was on hand to express her delight. 

She said: "It's amazing really.

"We do have a lot of support locally and regulars that support us and somebody just came into the cafe to say that they had nominated us so it is nice when people tell you. 

"It definitely makes all the hard work worthwhile.

Liz also explained how the Posting Pot is more than just a village cafe, but is a 'hub' for the Wetheral with this being the main reason why she believes the cafe was nominated. 

She said: "I think it is small and friendly, they always get a warm welcome when they come in. 

"It is a nice place for people to meet friends and family and also the food is good, it is all homemade and we use local produce and local suppliers. 

"I just think it is a hub of the village.

"It is a lovely place but also if people want to go for walks or are staying in a hotel nearby it is a nice place to come and have a coffee and it just has a real buzz about it. 

"People love popping in and saying hi, it has got a nice atmosphere and it is just really nice.