APPLICATIONS are open for vendors to sell drink and ice cream on the Malvern Hills.

The Malvern Hills Trust manages the commons and it is governed by the Malvern Hills Acts, giving the trust power to grant licences for up to six mobile stalls on its land to sell food and refreshment to visitors.

A spokeswoman for the trust said it wants to continue supporting businesses in the area and giving visitors what they need.

Vendors will be stationed at car-parks.

A much-loved cafe did exist at the top, known as The Beacon Cafe, which greeted walkers at the summit. However, it was destroyed by fire in 1993 but licences have been granted since then.

READ MORE: Coronavirus: Two women from Worcestershire 'self-quarantine' on return from China

READ MORE: Wine bottle hoard unearthed in Worcestershire going to auction

Mayor of Malvern, cllr Neil Morton, said: “It was a shame when the cafe burned down in the early 90s as it was very popular with walkers.

"My understanding is that Parliament would not give permission for it to be rebuilt.

“When visitors come to the hills, they expect food and drink to be available to buy.

"This is particularly the case during warm weather.

“I find with increased footfall from visitors enjoying the stunning hills, Malvern town has increased visitor numbers.

"It has a knock-on effect all round.

“Providing the licensing is done sensibly, I welcome the application process.”

The Malvern Hills Trust is a registered charity, tasked with conserving and increasing appreciation of the hills, managing 1,200 hectares (3,000 acres) of open grassland, woodland and scrub.

Anyone wanting to supply the walkers and cyclists with refreshments is asked to download and fill out an application form available on the trust’s website.

Applications will then need to be sent to: to Malvern Hills Trust, Manor House, Grange Road, Malvern, WR14 3EY and mark the envelope with “confidential”.

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Wednesday, March 4.