Heather Mills’ vegan cafe is proving a hit with meat-eating residents.

Thousands of customers have been visiting the meat and dairy-free VBites every week since it opened at Hove Lagoon on July 4.

And it seems the former model’s new venture is changing many people’s attitudes towards vegan food, as between 700 and 1,000 vegan products are sold at the venue every day.

The cafe’s cakes, which are transported around on a travelator similar to that found in sushi bars, are also proving to be a popular treat for those with a sweet tooth. About 1,000 are being sold every week.

Ms Mills said: “I can honestly say we have not slowed down since opening day.

“Watching carnivores arriving hungry, leaving satisfied then coming back with their families has been the best thing for me.

“I think VBites is perfect at Hove Lagoon, an ethical healthy filling station in a hive of fun filled activity.”

On the cafe’s opening day Ms Mills scaled the cafe’s roof to explain to residents that after living in the area for ten years she wanted to do something to revive it.

She now thinks that VBites can rival other establishments in Brighton.

She said: “VBites has received a unanimous thumbs up from the local community.

“I’m so excited at how well things are going.

“People are really pleased that this part of Hove has finally got an eating and drinking venue to rival Brighton.”

The cafe’s website has also been popular, with more than 3,000 hits on VBites’ opening day.

Ms Mills bought the former Big Fish Cafe in March and has had a busy few months ensuring everything would be ready in time for its opening.

She was very involved in designing the cafe and creating its menu and was even spotted rolling up her sleeves to ensure all of the decorating was finished in time.

She also led a vegan cookery masterclass during the Foodies Festival in May, which ran as part of Brighton Festival Fringe.