AN OXFORD-BASED learning disabilities charity will take over the operation of a Witney cafe.

The Yellow Submarine, which already runs a cafe in Park End Street, will take over the Windrush Leisure Centre cafe, West Oxfordshire District Council revealed.

The charity provides young people with learning disabilities the opportunity to gain work experience and inter-personal skills.

People with learning disabilities will work in the cafe at the leisure centre.

West Oxfordshire District councillor for leisure and health James Mills said: “We are absolutely delighted to be welcoming Yellow Submarine to the Windrush Leisure Centre and believe it is a win-win situation for everybody.

“Not only will it support the charity in its outstanding work to create opportunities for people with learning disabilities, it will also bring something new and exciting to the café which I am sure will be welcomed by leisure centre-users.”

The social enterprise was shortlisted for the Oxfordshire Cafe of the Year award. It also provides a catering delivery service.

Leisure centre manager Peter Cheeseman said: “We are delighted to be able to work in partnership with an established award-winning charitable organisation that will both enhance the service at the Windrush Leisure Centre and help young adults with learning disabilities in Oxfordshire.”