A SINGLE mother-of-three has opened a new café in Hereford as she pursues her passions with her church’s help.

Esther Dixon, 32, of Hampton Dene, has opened Union Coffee, in Union Walk, with the backing of Hope City Church.

She set up the café after a conversation with the church’s pastor.

“The church wanted to open up to the community and give something back,” she said.

Hereford Times: Union Coffee is ran by Esther Dixon and Hope City Church. Picture: Rob Davies.Union Coffee is ran by Esther Dixon and Hope City Church. Picture: Rob Davies.

A group of volunteers are helping her serve customers Monday to Wednesday from 9.30am to 2pm while Ms Dixon also works two other jobs.

She has always had a passion to open a café, she said.

“I want to make it a community hub.”

She moved back to the county in the middle of the pandemic and recognised how much people need a friend, somewhere to go and a friendly atmosphere.

“I know what it is like to need extra support,” she said.

Hereford Times: Affordable homemade cakes are on offer from Rosie's Homemade Bakes.Affordable homemade cakes are on offer from Rosie's Homemade Bakes.

Customers have already found it a space to chat to others and feel a sense of community, Ms Dixon said.

“It is something positive for people’s mental health.”

They will also be giving out names of different local charities to those who need them.

Hereford Times: The café is ran from Hope City Church in Union Walk. Picture: Rob DaviesThe café is ran from Hope City Church in Union Walk. Picture: Rob Davies

Cakes are made by Hereford baker Rosie Edwards, of Rosie’s Homemade Bakes, while coffee and other products are locally sourced.

Prices are also affordable, said Ms Dixon.

Ms Dixon said Hereford has a good sense of community and Union Coffee will be another space for people to meet a friendly face.

Hereford Times: Coffee from local company Black Mountain Roast is available. Picture: Rob DaviesCoffee from local company Black Mountain Roast is available. Picture: Rob Davies

During the summer holidays she also plans to hold different events for children and families to help parents with childcare.