An East Sheen coffee shop is bringing people together through a new initiative that gives free hot drinks to community workers.

Customers visiting Babycakes in Upper Richmond Road West can chose to add an extra coffee to their bill that is then “suspended” until someone who provides a community service claims it.

The shop’s owner Lucy da Silva-Safi said her husband stumbled across the concept on a trip to America and the couple adapted it to fit the local community who have benefited people including police officers and street cleaners.

She said: “We care about the people who visit us and the people in our community, especially those who look after us and provide us with special services.

“The aim is to make the East Sheen community a tighter one and one in which everyone works together, allowing those who serve our community to know people care for their interest and wellbeing.

“It allows the community members a channel to express their gratitude towards these people.”