A FORMER Kidderminster Harriers boss is hoping to take a quirky Bewdley coffee lounge to the "next level" as its new owner.

Ex-footballer Mark Yates, aged 49, has taken the over the reigns of the Piccolos coffee shop on Load Street, which was previously run by his sister-in-law Rachael Willets, for the past 13 years.

The manager, who took the reins on May 1, is excited about the new venture and hopes to carry on the success of the previous owner, introducing new live music events to delight customers.

Mark said: "It's a quirky little coffee shop with a lot of character, and we want to take it to the next level.

"It's all about keeping the customers happy - Rachael has done such a wonderful job over the years.

"We want to keep working hard and improve the shop, and put our own stamp on it."