TASTE of Sidmouth has celebrated its fifth birthday in tough economic times for small businesses.

Staff enjoyed cake and ice cream with regulars to mark the occasion on Monday.

“We are touched by how many customers wished us a happy birthday and wished us well in these hard economic times,” said Laura Bennett, who owns the business with her sister, Hazel Jones.

“Let’s hope the next five years are a little easier for us and the other small businesses in Sidmouth.”