A HISTORIC building in north Durham has been restored to its former glory.

The Imperial Hotel on Front Street in Stanley has been given a facelift as part of the ongoing regeneration of the town.

Durham County Council gave the building’s leaseholder Camerons Brewery a £20,000 Targeted Business Improvement grant towards the work.

Council conservation officers also advised the brewery on restoring the listed structure which saw over £50,000 invested in the building’s exterior.

Councillor Neil Foster, the council’s cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “We are committed to the regeneration of Stanley. “By helping to restore this much loved building in the heart of the town we are not only improving how it looks but unlocking more job opportunities at the same time.”

The hotel was recently used as a filming location for George Gently with the restoration work beginning once filming had been completed.

The traditional sash windows have been reinstated and the brickwork, original tiles and stonework cleaned and restored ahead of it reopening.

Matthew Stancliffe, regional operations manager for Camerons Brewery, said: "Camerons are delighted with the restoration of the Imperial Hotel back to its former glory.

“Working closely with Durham County Council we have jointly invested over £50,000.

“Our priority now is to find an experienced operator to develop a successful business in this iconic building.”

Tenants interested in the business should contact Matthew Stancliffe on 01429-852-000.