Coffee lovers can now get their caffeine fix and complete a good deed for the day at the city’s first ‘suspended coffee shop'.

Those who order a hot beverage at The Mad Hatter coffee shop in Brighton can also fork out for an extra coffee that can be claimed for free by a person in need.

The idea is based on Italian goodwill tradition and enables people to buy a warm cup of coffee for someone who can’t afford it.

The craze has been sweeping the country, but The Mad Hatter in Montpelier Road is thought to be the first in Brighton and Hove.

Max Azzara, who works at the shop, said: “We had a customer come in one day and mention it.

“I thought it was a really good idea so I discussed it with the manager and he agreed to give it a go.

“It’s been going for a month now and has been a real success. It’s amazing to see how generous people are.

“When people come and claim a suspended coffee, it makes a real difference.

“It’s a small deed but can make a big difference to someone. I’m glad we can help make a change for the positive.”

Suspended coffee shops first originated in Naples around 100 years ago.

The idea spread to Bulgaria – where there re now more than 150 individual outlets – and eventually across the globe.

Sarah Emmerson, a keyworker at Brighton and Hove Housing Trusts’ First Base Day Centre, said she welcomed the idea of the needy enjoying a coffee, but raised concerns the system would be taken advantage of.

She said: “If it helps a homeless person or someone who really can’t afford a nice drink to relax for ten minutes, then it’s a great idea.

“My only issue would be whether people would abuse the system and perhaps take advantage of free coffees.

“But other than that, it’s a good addition for the city.”