A COUNCIL is celebrating a National Lottery cash boost for restoration works to its town hall.

South Tyneside Borough Council obtained the money for the works to South Shields Town Hall, a Grade II listed building, constructed in 1910.

The work, costing £227,396, will now be carried out to the roof and its figure of Mercury statue.

The Heritage Lottery funding is £123,500, with the rest of the cost being met by the authority.

The council leader, Councillor Paul Waggott, said: "The town hall is a very important and prestigious building which has won many accolades over the years for its fine architecture and imposing style.

"Time has taken its toll on the building and although over the years much money has been spent on maintaining the building to a high standard, the boost of the Heritage Lottery Fund grant will take the restoration to a further stage.