Sidmouth Repair Cafe is celebrating five successful years this month.

The cafe held its first session in September 2018 and has become a very popular community project, with a large number of people coming along every month to get items mended rather than throwing them away and buying new replacements. It has saved countless items from going to landfill.

While waiting for their turn visitors can have tea, coffee, cake and bacon rolls at the 'real café' at the kitchen, catch up with neighbours and make new friends.

Jenny Ashmore, who is one of the welcoming team, said: "We're a victim of our own success!

“Watching first time visitors arrive a bit unsure and then seeing how relaxed, smiley and impressed they are when they leave says it all."

Satisfied customers have given plenty of positive feedback to the Repair Cafe team.

Comments include: “My long time loved radio was very quickly working again. I am delighted. Excellent. Kevin was very helpful.”

“Penny as always is so helpful and can mend a garment back to new!”

“Prompt and thorough service of item. Cleaner to take home than when I bought it. Service with a smile!”

“Taught how to sew a patch. Thank you.”

The Repair Cafe has also helped the local Cats Protection charity shop.

Jenny said: "A very big fluffy should-be-automated (but not) toy dog was brought in by someone from the Cat Protection shop. They wanted advice as to whether it was worth them spending money on very expensive batteries so they could sell the dog if those batteries were not the problem. Kevin tested and movement was confirmed - so they can now go ahead and then sell to make a profit for their charity.

“It was also lovely to see an old slide projector repaired, allowing the owner to finally see her parents' slides! How good is that!”

The Repair Café had a break during the summer, but will hold its next session on Saturday, September 30, 10am until 1pm at the Youth Centre in Manstone Lane. The team say they're looking forward to welcoming people back. Entry is free, but donations are welcome.

Find the Repair Café at https://www.facebook.com/sidmouthrepaircafe