A BUSINESSWOMAN is fighting back against the recession by launching a cafe and tea rooms in a market town.

Sophie Mitchell, 34, runs The Pantry, in North End, Bedale.

The café, which was previously a sports shop, opened before Christmas.

Ms Mitchell, who used to work in her family’s tea shop, as well as at the famous Betty’s tea rooms, in Harrogate, says business is booming.

She said: "We had the place for six weeks before we opened, and it was a lot of hard work to get it ready.

"It has gone really well so far, we have had a lot of positive feedback from customers."

The Pantry offers a range of hot and cold drinks, home made cakes and light meals.

It can be contacted on 01677-424922.