The newly rebranded cafe at Curraghs Wildlife Park has opened its doors to its first customers following a winter makeover.

Now named the Mangrove Cafe, the Ballaugh premises welcomed members of the public on Saturday to its refurbished interior that is complete with new flooring, equipment, lighting and some fitting ring-tailed lemur wallpaper.

Storm Ciara’s arrival, however, led to the park, including the cafe being closed on Sunday.

The venue is operated by Tim and Rachel Knighton, who also run Sunset Lakes in Peel, and offers a menu of fresh and healthy dishes with disposable items such as cutlery and takeaway cups being compostable to help reduce plastic waste from the wildlife park.

Environment Minister Geoffrey Boot MHK said: ’It is great to see the pride Tim and Rachel have taken and I am sure the café will be a real asset to the Wildlife Park.

’I am especially pleased to see their determination to reduce unnecessary plastic waste.’

Tim said: ’The Mangrove café has one of the best views you can imagine and we have been working extremely hard to create a special atmosphere.

’We want people to leave their lunch boxes at home and come and try our delicious new menu.’

The Park attracted nearly 50,000 visitors in 2019.

It is open Friday to Sunday from 10am until 4pm and seven days a week during February half-term. There is a 10% discount on all hot food and drinks for members.