Two entrepreneurial brothers are praying their tasty soups will give customers a warm and virtuous glow.

James Surgeon, 23 and Matthew Surgeon, 21, have set up an "ethical eating" bar in the former Bible House on Newcastle Pilgrim's Street.

The pair, who were finalists of last year's Biz Idol competition and also reached the regional final at the Blueprint business awards, will open the cafe - called Supe - for business on Thursday.

The £110,00 project will see them serve fresh smoothies and juices, paninis, sandwiches, wraps and salads and there will be a choice of four fresh soups from an ever-changing seasonal menu.

Oxford University graduate James said: "I soon realised the growth potential in healthy and ethical eating and so we devised the idea of fresh, healthy, fast-food that keeps you feeling good.

"Customers can be sure that with our food they are getting quality, healthy food, that has been made fresh that day. We take care in choosing ingredients that have a feel good effect on the body to help uplift energy levels and with our friendly service hopefully we will be first on people's minds when they want a quick, healthy bite to eat in the city centre."

Brother Matthew, who has worked in the food industry for several years, including a year's training in Canada before coming back to the North-East, said: "I will be working full time in the kitchen to ensure the freshness and quality of the food. I am ready to meet the challenge I have set myself of offering some of the tastiest food in the city centre."