EAST Hampshire MP Damian Hinds did the honours by cutting the ribbon to declare a new Grayshott cafe officially open last Friday.

Mr Hinds, the Conservative MP?for both Grayshott and Liphook, said it was a “great pleasure to declare the Village Cafe and Restaurant well and truly open” as he was joined by locals at the busy official ceremony in The Square.

Outside, despite the cold, jazz duet Spoons, part of the Temperance Seven group which plays on the last Tuesday of every month at Grayshott Social Club, kept up a cheerful tune to greet customers arriving to sample the coffee and menu on offer.

Cafe owner David Akar offered to donate all proceeds from the day to a village good cause, and customers could vote for their choice on a “polling menu”.

The nominations were between Grayshott Scouts, Grayshott Youth Club, Disabilities Challenge or Grayshott Lights fund.

Disability Challenge came top of the poll and Mr Akar will be donating over £400 to the charity.

David, who is originally from Turkey, spotted the premises online and three months ago he sealed the deal.

Over the last six weeks a complete refit has taken place throughout the restaurant premises, including a new kitchen and toilets.

The design is based on his other cafe and restaurant in Chessington, on the outskirts of London called Rhonas, which he has been running for 15 years.

He said: “I always liked Grayshott and was happy when the deal went through. I like the people and the community spirit, which was one of the main reasons why I wanted to come here.

“The Barista Boys Coffee Club also helped me with my decision.”

The menu features all-day breakfasts, jacket potatoes, paninis, a children’s menu, grills, pasta and rice dishes, burgers, sandwiches, rolls and baguettes.

On Sundays there is also a choice of roast dinners and there is a takeaway facility.

Opening hours are: Monday to Saturday 8am-5pm, Sunday 9am-4pm. Call: (01428) 608877 for all enquiries.