NEW jobs will be created in a £300,000 pub renovation programme, bosses have revealed.

Operators D&G Pub Company and Star Pubs & Bars are together investing in the renovation of The Wheatsheaf and The George, both in Darlington.

Work has already started at The Wheatsheaf, based on Yarm Road, which will be closed until later this month.

Bosses say the improvements will create ten jobs, with a kitchen extension, to provide a refreshed food menu, complemented by decoration of a function room and lounge.

At The George, on Bondgate, a complete internal and external refurbishment will be carried out to bring it up to date.

Phil Barkley, D&G Pub Company area manager, said: “Offering breakfasts, real coffee and snacks alongside wholesome fresh homecooked food in a comfortable environment will broaden the pub’s appeal to everyone from families to local businesses wanting to hold informal meetings outside the office.”

Gary Corney, operations and sales director at Star Pubs & Bars, added: “We’re delighted to be investing in Darlington and working with D&G to upgrade The Wheatsheaf and The George.

“The work will be in line with consumers’ changing needs while retaining the spirit of the great traditional pub.”