THE new Laughing Elephant Cafe at Hale Barns has opened in style with a star studded VIP launch party.

Coronation Street’s Catherine Tyldesley, Manchester United legends Bryan Robson, Denis Irwin and Norman Whiteside and BBC 6 Music presenter and Celebrity Mastermind star Chris Hawkins all joined friends and family for a celebration of the opening of the new independent cafe.

It is the first business venture for owners Daniel McDonald and Ben Rose.

Daniel said: “We’re really excited to officially launch The Laughing Elephant Café, surrounded by our family and friends.

“We make and serve only locally-sourced food and are committed to our goal, which was to open a venue that serves excellent, restaurant quality dishes at affordable prices.

“Our ethos is all about sourcing our food locally and supporting other local independent businesses in delivering high quality. We’re looking forward to welcoming our new customers and becoming an integral part of the Hale Barns community.”

The opening follows an extensive six week internal refurbishment and installation of an outside heated seating area and children’s play corner.

Guests at the launch party were treated to a host of small plates from the new Autumn menu designed by award winning head chef, Nic Duncan, including: smoked salmon, avocado and cucumber salad, braised oxtail and dumplings and sea bass. Sweet treats included plum crumble, chocolate mousse and elderflower and autumn berry trifle.

The cafe is open daily from 7.30am during the week and 8am at the weekend.