A couple have swapped the bright lights of Blackpool to run the long-established Cliffe Castle caf.

Geoff and Kath Maker ran a hotel in Blackpool for five years but did not like the way the resort was going.

They expect to find a better class of customer from among both local people and visitors to the museum and park.

They promise a friendly welcome for everyone who drops into the caf.

Geoff and Kath say they have already attracted museum and park staff for the first time in years.

Teachers from nearby Holy Family School, school students, workmen and dog walkers have also become regular customers during the quiet winter months.

The couple, originally from Castleford, aim to get to know their regular customers as they build the business up in time for the busy summer period.

Geoff has been a carpet fitter for most of his working life, eventually running a carpet shop in Pontefract.

After moving to Blackpool, on the resort's more genteel North Shore, they built their hotel up to three-diamond status.

Kath said: "All the hotels were having stag and hen parties staying with them and we didn't want to.

"We liked the meeting-the-public side of the business, so we decided on a caf instead."

The couple also wanted to spend more time with each other rather than being on constant call as hoteliers.

Kath said: "We're loving it here. It's surprised us how many people come to the museum or for a walk.

"We're passionate about our job -- everyone is special to us. We want to get to know our customers."

Geoff and Kath promise healthy meals and children's versions of the main meals, and plan to cater for children's parties.

The caf is open every day except Monday to tie in with Cliffe Castle Museum opening times.