A healthy future is predicted for a new cafe concept in the Tees Valley. Two Darlington entrepreneurs have opened what they believe is the region's first tarot cafe bar. Les Fry and Harald Volkmann have come up with the idea of a shopping and leisure outlet which brings together Goth and street wear with products from the alternative therapy market. In Arcadia, located in a former cycle shop in Skinnergate, also offers customers the opportunity to have tarot card reader Rhianne tell them about their future. Downstairs, the shop sells body jewellery, incense, tarot cards and books. Upstairs is the coffee bar and a space to showcase local artists. Les said: "It is early days but business is three times better than initial expectations." A body piercer on Tyneside for 22 years, Les moved to Darlington when competition in that industry became too fierce and became a community worker in Stockton. He loved community work, but found it was uncertain because of short-term funding. "I have been interested in psychic and spirit all my life, fascinated by tarot cards and alternative traditions and always reading about different religions. I have tried to include an element of mystery in the design of the shop, from our logo through to the shop decor and web design. "I'm wanting to provide people with something a little different and I think that In Arcadia can be a place for people to not only enjoy a quiet cup of coffee but to also experience the mystical qualities of tarot and absorb the unique atmosphere while admiring the artwork." In bandana and bright Bermuda-style shirt, Les and the more conservative-looking Harald seem odd business associates. Len admits to being surprised when Harald, an internet new car broker, liked the idea of the cafe with a difference. But it turned out German-born Harald's family has been in the coffee bar trade for generations. In Arcadia received business funding through Darlington Council and HSBC. The name In Arcadia comes from a painting by Nicolas Poussin, The Shepherds of Arcadia, on which the words Et In Arcadia Ego are engraved. The message and painting are linked to the mystery surrounding Rennes-le-Chateau in France. The village is featured in Dan Brown's bestseller, The Da Vinci Code. | 
Business Comment
Enterprise North East
Evening Gazette's
