The new owner of a popular Kenilworth cafe has celebrated a year since taking over.

Owen Prosser-Stock became the new owner of Time for Tea in August 2022, the first time he had run his own business.

And after what he described as a "mad" first 12 months, going solo, moving, buying a dog and having his first child, the 25-year-old said he was really pleased with what he had achieved so far.

"I was really excited and full of crazy ideas at the start, but you don't realise how much there is to do until you're in it," he told Nub News. 

"So, I have learnt a hell of a lot over the last year. I am honestly so proud. 

"I always told people even if I was here for just three months, I would have been proud. 

"People don't realise just how much you have to put in as a business owner. There's been a lot of sleepless nights, a lot of blood, sweat and tears."

Owen Prosser-Stock took over at Time for Tea to get back into working with food (image supplied)

Kenilworth born and bred; Owen first fell in love with hospitality while working at The Bakers Dozen where he described himself as a "cheeky chappy" behind the tills.

He then went onto work for CJ's Events Warwickshire, helping to organise events across South Warwickshire for around five years.

But it was the draw of working with food again that inspired him to take over at the Castle Hill eatery.

"The seller contacted me to say they were selling Time for Tea, so we went for breakfast to have a look," he explained. 

"I met her, realised there was a flat above it and realised it was perfect and was exactly what I wanted. 

"I wanted to go back to my roots of customer service, and I wanted to run my own business. 

"I am Kenilworth born and bred, I love the town, I do lots in the town with the carnival and the panto and so on. So it's great to be involved, running my own business."

Owen has introduced a range of popular events at Time for Tea (image by James Smith)

After getting the keys, Owen wasted no time in getting customers in - with the venue only closed on the Monday as usual after he took over.

Since then, Owen has gradually redecorated inside and out over the months.

Having not initially changed the name, he is working towards rebranding as 'No.40 Old Town' once he "gets off his bum" to submit a planning application.

But for now, he wants to focus on the incredibly popular events at Time for Tea, including the hugely popular Friday night takeovers.

As well as some exciting events in the pipeline, he is also working with the other business owners on the street to bring back Castle Hill Fest for its second instalment on Monday (August 28).

Castle Hill Fest is coming back on Monday, August 28 (image supplied)

"All the owners, we all get on so well, which is brilliant," he said. 

"When I went to them and suggested the street party, they were all so supportive. 

"And we said we would only do it if we all did it together. 

"We all help each other on a daily basis. It would be so difficult if we didn't do that. 

"Monday is going to be brilliant, with the full street taken over and even more traders than last time!"

To find out more about Time for Tea, head to the website here.