A NEW coffee business opened in Peebles this week.

Brew 52, run by Melanie Dunbar, officially opened in the town today (Wednesday), selling barista coffees, other hot drinks and cakes from Kingsmeadows Car Park.

Melanie has been operating the mobile coffee shop from her red van, Ruby, since January, serving coffees and homebaking in Penicuik and Midlothian.

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Melanie said: "I am very excited to get started in Peebles, it has taken a while to get to this point.

"Thanks to Borders Council for supporting my application.

"I am looking forward to meeting the people of Peebles and offering them our fantastic selection of barista coffees, other hot drinks and our fabulous cakes and treats."

The coffee served at Brew 52 is sourced from Arumba Coffee in Penicuik.

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Sustainability and giving back to the community are key to Melanie's business.

As well supporting Food Facts Friends – a Penicuik-based foodbank charity – Melanie has delivered free drinks and treats to people nominated by members of the community.

All of the disposable items used by Brew 52 are compostable or biodegradable.

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Melanie added: "The initial idea for starting Brew 52 took shape during the first COVID lockdown as a way to serve home-workers but has developed from there as people have adopted more hybrid working.

"As I am in a central location, close to the parks and dog walking routes, I hope that I will be convenient for lots of people to pay me a visit during the day.

"I have received a lot of encouraging comments on social media, it sounds like people are really looking forward to Brew 52 getting started."

Brew 52 is open at Kingsmeadows Car Park Wednesday to Sunday from 10am-3pm.