A MISSION to reduce isolation among the elderly is under way after an Appleton coffee house and deli opened its doors.

Residents have been enjoying a selection of drinks and tasty treats on offer at Bizzie Beans, which is based at the previously vacant Bridge Lane premises, since January 18.

After identifying the site two years ago, owner Karen Howard, 51, pledged to deliver the 'community hub' type facility to help rejuvenate the area and unite residents.

"It has been quite steady since we opened but people are glad that it is here and feel it has been a long time coming as it was empty since 2010," said Karen, from Appleton Thorn.

"Everything is looking positive and there have been a mix of residents coming in."

The venue serves a variety of food and drink including soup, sandwiches, paninis and pies, with more options set to be added later in the year.

Karen said: "There will possibly be new things coming on the menu – I am hoping to add milkshakes and smoothies to it.

"At the minute it is a bog standard menu but the more people come in, the more I will be able to expand it as I don't want to throw away food."

Elderly residents who live nearby have also been full of praise for the latest addition to Appleton.

"I am hoping it will bring people together as it is a nice meeting place for everyone," added Karen.

"I want it to reduce isolation and elderly people have been telling me it is giving them somewhere to go."