WORK has started on a caf, with Internet facilities, in Darlington.

Caf Gulp, which is due to open in mid-September, will be housed in the old Darlington and Stockton Times offices of the Northern Echo premises in Priestgate.

Gulp UK Ltd was to open the first in a chain of caf shops in late 1999, having carried out extensive market research and enlisted experienced shop fitting company Alexander-le-Skerne.

But just as work was to start, Newsquest (North East) was introduced to Gulp UK company director Les Mooney, as it too was planning a similar venture.

Mr Mooney said: "With Newsquest's information service provider, Gulp's hotel and catering background and Alexander-le-Skerne's extensive project management and development skills, it appears the perfect combination for a successful business has been created.

"All three companies are keen to provide a caf environment which would be more suited to London or one of the larger cities in the country."

The caf will seat 72 people and have a private Internet section which will be manned to provide training.

A large television screen will keep everyone up-to-date, with Sky News being broadcast.

It is hoped the premises will also have an alcohol licence for customers who are eating in.

The caf will have excellent disabled facilities and wheelchair provision.

Mr Mooney said: "No such facilities are to be found in the area, but this is down to these three companies not previously having pooled their resources. Caf Gulp Darlington will surely provide something for everyone.