MANY people dream of running their own café or restaurant, but Noreen Ozols and her son Mike Oldfield and daughter Louise Oldfield are fully aware of the challenges involved.

With experience of running the market café in Barnstaple, 18 months ago the trio bought Fiascos, the sandwich shop and café at 106a High Street, and after establishing a loyal clientele have seen five more cafés and coffee shops open nearby and competition increasing.

Fiascos' response has been to focus on quality and it has recently re-opened after refurbishment.

"Everything we serve is prepared on the premises," said Noreen.

"We don't buy anything in and if anyone wants anything not on the menu we will make it for them."

All fillings are freshly prepared on the premises using free range eggs and mayonnaise, all savoury food is homemade and all sandwiches, wraps and paninis are also freshly prepared.

While many shoppers will know the front sandwich bar, some may not be aware of the 24-seat café to the rear where customers can choose from cooked breakfasts, homemade curries, chillis and even cream teas. Noreen said: "We believe our prices are competitive and we always get good feedback on our food."

Open from 8am to 4pm Monday to Saturday, Fiascos not only offers sandwiches, paninis, wraps (including duck in hoisin sauce and Italian meat feast), jacket potatoes with a range of mixes, homemade quiches and scotch eggs, but also a wide range of coffees.

Customers can eat in or take away, while buffets and corporate lunches can be delivered for small or large groups. Telephone orders can be made on 01271 323753.