A POP up cafe will open next week for refugees in West Somerset, most of whom are currently from war-torn Ukraine.

The NeighbourGood Cafe is the first ever venture of its kind in the area and is being organised by West Somerset Welcome Hub.

Customers will not need their wallets or purses, because food and drinks will be paid for by community pledges instead of money.

Each pledge made by a customer will be pinned to a noticeboard and customers can then enjoy locally-made food and freshly prepared hot or cold drinks.

The West Somerset NeighbourGood Cafe will open next Saturday, November 12, from 11 am to 4 pm in The Sanctuary, Swain Street, Watchet.

Customers can pay by giving community pledges such as offering their skills, for instance to run a yoga session or two, or a creative workshop, therapy sessions, sport sessions, and others.

Or, they can give their time to help at an event, or offer to give lifts, or perhaps offer a venue or service or to donate items for an event run by the hub, such as art materials, learning materials, food, and drink.

Even offering to introduce themselves to a neighbour or a new resident, or to smile at everybody they see that day would be accepted.

West Somerset Welcome Hub is the local help centre for refugees, hosts, and employers and has been established by Somerset charity Charis and part-funded by Somerset County Council.

Anybody who would like to become involved or find out more can contact hub manager Kate Kennedy by email at [email protected], or call 07424403884.