Spuds and salads are now the main course at a former ice cream shop in Alton - but a freezer full of tasty treats remains as a nod to its past.

Sarah Tarling has opened Bowl Salad or Spud at 63a High Street, the premises occupied by So Lush until earlier this year.

She said: “I am a new owner and just opened last week. I am serving jacket potatoes with a selection of toppings, and the salad bar is self-serve. My favourite topping has to be cheese, chilli and some coleslaw.

“Opening a salad bar and spud bar has been my dream for many years. I have grown up in or around Alton all my life, so have always been part of the community.”

Sarah was keen to keep old customers as well as attract new ones.

She said: “I have a feeling that some smaller people may be disappointed with the change so to make sure I don’t upset anyone I will also still be serving the Marshfield ice-creams, milkshakes and frappés. I also do pastries and coffees.

“I am running my business alone with the help of my family when they can. I opened on July 20 and the reviews and responses I have had from the public have been absolutely amazing. I really couldn't have done it without Kelly Larvan, Tracy Tarling, Sheila She, Dems Shaw, Maddison Tarling, Charlotte Jeffries and Harry Bennett. And of course my Michael!

“I just want to say thank you so much for all of the kind reviews and messages, and to everyone that has popped in this week. The response we have had has been overwhelming and I really couldn't have ever imagined it would have gone as well as it has.”

Bowl Salad or Spud is on Facebook and Instagram.