A FAVOURITE beachside cafe sold earlier this year has welcomed a new family to its helm.

Peter and Steve Hayward have taken over the Avon Beach Company in Mudeford after it was sold by the Derham family earlier this year.

The Derham’s had run the popular beachside cafe and shop since 1934, but since there was no fifth generation to take it over, they decided to put it on the market in August.

The business, which includes the cafe, shop, a quarter of a mile of beach and 125 beach hut sites, was sold as a package, and is a new challenge for the enterprising brothers.

The pair already own the pub, Finns at Ringwood, but say they are relishing the new challenge at Avon Beach.

Peter, 28, said: “We met with the Derham’s after we found out Avon Beach was for sale and got on well.

“I think they liked our plans for the place and also the fact that we are a family as well, as that was an important aspect of Avon Beach’s history.

“We knew it had a great clientele and was obviously in a prime spot with fantastic views and famous for its breakfasts, which are legendary in the area.

“We wanted to maintain and develop that as well as making it into a place to have a drink.

“In the New Year we will be opening for dinner, which will be really exciting.”

Steve, 26, added: “Everyone has been very supportive and encouraging.

“It is still a work in progress but we do have a number of plans up our sleeves.”

The family will also start serving afternoon teas at the picturesque spot in the New Year and say they are anticipating the traditional queues outside the shop for the eternally popular beach huts in January.

Manager Steve Flawith added: “It’s been a great few weeks and as we’re open every day except Christmas, we look forward to saying hello to all the local people.”