Sellafield workers can enjoy a cuppa on the way to work – and help support a community venture.

Calderwood House – an Egremont-based homeless hostel – has launched a new coffee van business and is trading each weekday from Yottenfews car park, close to the Sellafield site.

Money earned from the venture goes towards the long-term running of Calderwood House, which has supported more than 60 homeless people since it opened its doors in 2015.

Rachel Holliday, Calderwood's founder and director, said: "Since opening Calderwood House, we have received overwhelming support from West Cumbria, but we can’t rely on hand-outs, we need a longer term plan.

"Not only will the coffee van generate an income for Calderwood House, it provides an opportunity for our residents to gain work experience, learn new skills and develop the confidence to get back into work. It is a win-win.

"Our coffee is of extremely high quality and residents have been busy training to make sure every Calderwood latte, americano and mocha is perfect for our new customers who, in turn, will keep the doors to Calderwood House open."

Martin Chown, supply chain director for Sellafield Ltd, added: "I would like to congratulate those at Calderwood House on the way they have approached this new business venture.

"They identified that the Sellafield workforce could provide them with a large customer base, recognised the practicalities involved in trading close to the site and approached us to help make their vision a reality.

"We have thousands of employees with a desire to have a positive impact on the community, and Calderwood House is allowing them to do just that, through the simple act of buying a coffee."

Mayor of Copeland Mike Starkie said: “It is marvellous people are showing creative thinking and entrepreneurial spirit to support Calderwood House.

"It takes innovative thinking to keep projects like Calderwood House going. I wish them every success."

The hostel won a grant from the Fresh Ideas competition last year and decided to invest it in a business venture that will help sustain the hostel and provide work experience for their residents. The van is operational on a trial period on weekdays between 6am and 9.30am.