THE editor of the Malvern Gazette 50 years ago was impressed by the refurbishment at the Beacon Cafe on top of the hills.

"Ever since 1884, there has been a refreshment hut, or refuge from wind and weather on the top of the Worcestershire Beacon, the original of the present building being erected on an old quarry," he wrote.

"One morning recently, well before 11am, I was standing on the top outside the cafe, which the new proprietor, Mr Archie Ballard, has quite transformed.

"It has suitable and picturesque larch wood walls and in the cafe low comfortable tables and benches made of seasoned oak from the Ballard estate in Colwall.

"Once upon a time, such noted walkers as Bernard Shaw used to climb to the cafe and view the 'coloured counties' from its wonderful vantage point.

"Mr Ballard said people really seemed grateful to find a place open and tea, coffee and other things being served, adding that the cafe was open every day from 11am until 7pm.

"As so many of his visitors ask questions about the origins of the cafe, he has carefully written out in his own hand and hung on the wall a history of the Beacon top cafe and the relevant quotation from The Vision of Piers Ploughman."