A NORTH Yorkshire company behind a new eco-friendly coffee shop has revealed plans to open up to ten more North East locations in the next three years.

The first Milk and Grind shop had been launched after an investment in the region of £200,000 by Future Investments Ltd to convert a former High Street bookmaker's shop.

Seven staff have been recruited, the shop is open every day of the week, and all the electrical equipment has been given the top rating for energy efficiency.

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The cakes, breads and savoury snacks are prepared at the popular and well-established Village Bakery in Billingham and the shop will serve as the "mothership" for all the Milk and Grinds.

Plans are, reportedly, already underway for a second coffee shop in Yarm and Middlesbrough is also high on the list, as well as two towns in Northumberland.

Richard Wilson, who is advising Future Investments Ltd, said: "Milk & Grind has found a winning formula, from the distinctive look, the friendliness of the staff and the quality of the coffee."

Nicole Muir, general manager of the first Mlik and Grinds, said: "It’s been full-on – a bit of a whirlwind – but I’ve loved it.

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“There are lots of coffee shops in Stokesley, but we all look different and do different things. It’s nice to have somewhere new to go. We’ve created a lovely atmosphere and have good feel for our local community.

“People might not want to wait for 10 minutes for their food. They want to get a nice cup of coffee, a lovely slice of cake, sit down and eat.”

Milk and Grind's coffees and range of food - including cupcakes, bakewell tarts, brownies, cornflake slices, paninis and quice - are also available for takeaway.

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Mrs Muir added: "We’re really excited about how it’s gone so far. It’s early days but it looks like we’ve got this right and it can be a blueprint for what’s to come."

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