The company expects to open the new store in early summer.

Commuters will be able to enjoy a pick-me-up after coffee giant Starbucks confirmed a new store will open near Axminster this year.

The roadside restaurant will open in place of the Little Chef on the A35.

A spokeswoman for the company said: “We are excited to announce that we will be opening a new Starbucks Drive To store in partnership with Euro Garages on the A35 near Shute.

“The new store will open in early summer and we look forward to bringing our great quality coffee and becoming a popular community hub for our local customers.”

The announcement was heralded by Shute’s district and county councillor Iain Chubb.

Mr Chubb said: “It’s a good place for travellers to stop.

“Starbucks is a well-known brand and people know what quality they are going to get when they go there.”

Mr Chubb said the disused Little Chef restaurant on the A35 was an unattractive sight for motorists, adding: “It is good to see it re-opening under a recognised brand.”

The new Starbucks store’s opening hours are: Monday to Friday, 6am to 9pm; Saturday, 7am to 9pm; Sunday, 8am to 8pm.