A THRIVING community café in Congresbury has raised thousands for charities and local groups.

The café, which has been open for five years, has continuously supported village activities, local and national charities, as well as schools.

Currently, it is raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.

In April, the café donated £1,175 to St Andrew's School to help with the costs of the Year 6 camp.

As a thank you, the school's Year 6 children hosted a delightful afternoon tea for the café volunteers and members of the estate agent's team.

Ian Sheppard, speaking on behalf of the café, said: "It was a lovely opportunity for us to chat to the children about the camp and the various activities they took part in."

(Image: Congresbury Community Café Limited) This month, the café donated £1,000 to the Great Western Air Ambulance charity, and £500 to Congresbury Community Preschool to help them upgrade and maintain their outside spaces.

Mr Sheppard added: "We could only do this due to our volunteers giving up their time, to either bake the delicious homemade cakes and scones or help run the sessions, some do both.

"We are looking for a few more volunteers to bake and run sessions.

"If anyone is interested please email communitycoffee@btinternet.com with your contact details.

"Training including online courses to obtain an appropriate hygiene certificate is given.

"We try to ensure our volunteers and customers enjoy the café experience.

"Using the coffee machine is not a requirement."

The café, which serves award-winning Heritage blend coffee and barista-style dark hot chocolate from local supplier Bristol Twenty Tea and Coffee Co, is open on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 9am until 1pm.

It also runs a Glut Market where villagers can donate surplus vegetables and plants, which are available for a donation.

The café is improving its facilities and recently had a pitched roof canopy built across part of the courtyard.

Mr Sheppard continued: "That was the initial phase and we are looking to start on the next phase including an additional toilet in the New Year."

The café is supported by Debbie Fortune Estate Agents.