A CAFE bar catering for vegan customers amongst others is up and running in Darwen.

132 The Eatery in Sough Road, which opened last month, offers a vegan line alongside more mainstream options.

The modern venue represents a complete transformation of the corner shop formerly on the site.

132 is described as “a small and independently owned licensed coffee bar that serves a range of homemade foods and delicious drinks in a stylish and relaxed atmosphere”.

It is run by manager Natalie Eccles, who lives nearby. She has a four-strong team.

She said: “We knew what we wanted to bring to the town.

“We primarily had a vision to create an establishment that could offer amazing barrista speciality coffees, quality alcohol, complemented by fresh, local produce for a menu that caters for many, including a range of dietary requirements.

“As Darreners, we wanted this and felt and hoped many others would do too.”

Ms Eccles worked in bars and restaurants before opening 132, also working in an Australian eatery while travelling.

She added: “Our menu has great choices for vegetarians, however, more customers were requesting vegan options.

“As we wanted to be inclusive, our chef decided to be creative and the dishes she tested out were a remarkable culinary success.”

132 opened its doors officially on June 2, following a private opening in late May.

Ms Eccles said: “So much hard work has gone into preparing 132 from a run-down corner shop to the contemporary, stylish place it is now.

“When it’s for something you’re passionate about, the hard work and effort is worth it.

“We feel Darwen is a great place to live and work and we are proud of our roots.

“There are a variety of really good bars and eating establishments, some of which are favourite local hideouts and some which are recently opened and successful.

“We feel we are adding to the progression and improvement of the town in what we offer.”