People power helped to keep a coffee trailer at a popular beauty spot, says a city businessman.

David Lamb says he’s been overwhelmed by the unwavering support of the community since being forced to relocate his business.

Coal Face Coffee Trailer owner David Lamb with his dogs Luna and Beau has a new pitch at Herrington Park next to the lake. | Sunderland Echo

placeholder image — Coal Face Coffee Trailer owner David Lamb with his dogs Luna and Beau has a new pitch at Herrington Park next to the lake. | Sunderland Echo

A mechanic of 20 years, David, from Shiney Row, had a complete career gear change when he pursued his passion for coffee last year and turned it into The Coal Face Coffee Trailer.

He converted a former horse box himself and named his business after Herrington Country Park’s former life as a colliery, knowing that’s where he wanted his business to be.

Opening in July last year in the bottom car park at the park, a spot where David was already a regular dog walker, it proved a great asset, a meeting spot for mental health and walking groups, while helping fill the gap for a brew on the go at this end of the park.

However, the businessman was devastated to receive a call from Sunderland City Council in March to say they would not be renewing his contract to trade because of preparation works for Radio 1’s Big Weekend, which takes place in the park from May 22-24.

David says he's been hugely supported by the community | Sunderland Echo

The council released a statement at the time, saying although they were “unable to retender the contract for this pitch. The city council will be happy to consider suitable alternative locations or opportunities as soon as possible.”

His loyal customers leapt to action, contacting local media and starting a petition which was signed by around 700 people.

Soon after, David received a call from the council to say a new location had been found - just 100 yards away from the original on the pathway beyond the car park.

David says he thinks the swift action was thanks in part to the public’s support, which has continued at the new site.

The new location is next to the model boating lake | Sunderland Echo

Speaking from the new location, just next to the boating lake, David said: “I’m so glad to be back, more so for the customers, who say something like this is really needed at this end of the park.

“I’ve been back open two weeks now and it’s flying. I’ve probably served thousands of people in those two weeks and it’s actually busier than it was before.

“I’ve gone from a job where I worked night shifts and just saw the same faces to seeing thousands and thousands of people - and I love it! Especially on a beautiful day like today.”

The Coal Face specialises in a range of hot and cold coffees, soft drinks, crisps, cookies and snacks and, of course, is very dog-friendly with free treats for four-legged friends.

Speaking about launching the business last year, David said: “As soon as I opened the business it went massive, above and beyond what I expected. I’d get the park regulars first thing, the dog walkers, then the families out feeding the ducks, and it became a meeting point for groups.

“Which is why it was such a shock to receive the first phone call in March from the council. At that point I didn’t know when I would be able to trade here again. But, thankfully, by the end of the month I received another call to say they had a new location.

“The support and petition blew up and I just can’t thank people enough.”

*Coal Face Coffee Trailer is open Thursdays to Sundays from 8.30am to mid-afternoon.