A popular North East pub and hotel has hit the market as its owners have "put the rumours to rest" after speculation on its future.

The well-known Battlesteads pub in Northumberland has been a destination for years and has been under the same management for almost two decades.

In an emotional goodbye, the pub management paid tribute to the customers and staff who had devoted their time over the years.

Read more: North East pubs that have closed due to cost of living crisis

It comes as a number of North East pubs are either shutting up shop or handing the keys back over the cost of living crisis.

More recently, a pub landlady in Cockfield, Bishop Auckland, revealed she had been forced to shut her kitchen and that she would be ending her tenancy over rising bills.

But in a statement, Richard and Dee from the Battlesteads in Wark said: "Ok, so let’s put the rumours to rest! After almost 18 years Dee and I have decided to sell the Battlesteads.

"We have had a great adventure winning so many awards, that we’ve lost count and we’ve finally run out of cupboard space.

"None of this would have been possible without our magnificent team and of course you, our loyal customers. Many of whom we count as friends.

"We feel it's now time, for us to pass the baton onto an investor with fresh ideas, who can take the Battlesteads forward.

"This process is just beginning and is rarely speedy (usually taking many months). We will continue to provide great hospitality, food and service and it's definitely business as usual.

"Our team are fully aware, supportive and looking forward to future developments. So please continue to support them as Battlesteads moves onto its next chapter. Richard and Dee."

According to the pair, the business is being marketed through Christie & Co.

Read next:

If you want to read more stories, why not subscribe to your Northern Echo for as little as £1.25 a week. Click here