Tough economic times have seen many shops disappear from high streets across wales; however local entrepreneurs Dan Cullinane and Carl Williams are reversing the trend by opening The Lounge, a contemporary coffee shop situated in the heart of Brynmawr.

Following months of hard work, the pair, who have been friends since attending Brynmawr comprehensive school together are opening their doors to the public and offering hot drinks, Panini’s and an outstanding cooked breakfast.

The lounge will also offer its customers the chance to take in some of the most sought after art in Wales, after owners Dan and Carl agreed to showcase renowned local artist Goff Danter’s work in the shop.

Dan Cullinane said: “It’s great to finally open, it has always been a dream of mine to run my own business and I never thought I would be able to achieve it at the age of 21”

Carl Williams added: “It was a tough few months getting everything ready for the shop and we wanted to open before Christmas so customers could enjoy The Lounge on those cold welsh winter evenings.”

The Lounge is open seven days a week and throughout December will transform into a wine bar in the evenings, offering anything from mulled wine and a minced pie to sex on the beach cocktails.