New hosts take reins at Barnard Castle eaterie No8 The Bank

A NEW team has taken the reins at a Barnard Castle cafe.

Partners Michael Lealman and Gill Welsh took over No8 The Bank last month.
As well as continuing with the innovative Dementia Cafe meetings on alternate Friday afternoons, the couple say they plan to expand the range of what's on offer at the eaterie.
Mr Lealman has been a chef for 28 years, but it was Ms Welsh who put him onto the opportunities offered in Barnard Castle.
“I have always loved Barnard Castle. It’s got a lovely feel. The people are really friendly and I have always come on a Sunday for a day out,” she said.
“Michael used to run his own business and I put him on to this place. He was working in York but was saying he would like to do something for himself.
“I started looking around and said this would be a fantastic place.”
Mr Lealman and Ms Welsh travel daily from Castle Eden, near Peterlee, to run the business and employ three members of staff. One of their first moves was to ensure the cafe was open on a regular basis – it now operates Tuesday to Sunday.
Future plans include a children’s Easter egg competition, the winner of which will be chosen on Easter Sunday.
Mr Lealman plans to develop the menu and open the cafe – which is fully licensed – for evening meals during the summer season.
They also hope to offer alfresco dining on The Bank outside the cafe.
Catering to events such as christenings and birthday parties is also on the menu.
Ms Welsh said they had received a warm welcome since taking over the business.
“We have had a great response. We have had people in who had never been in before.”