The team responsible for bringing a historic Northumberland pub back into use is ready to celebrate the pub being open for a year.

The Highlander in Ponteland was bought by Northumberland hospitality group Unveiled Venues in late 2022 after standing empty for several years.

Following extensive refurbishment, the 18th-century coaching inn opened its doors on September 14, 2023.

Since then, the pub has sponsored the Ponteland Beer Festival and the Ponteland Party in the Park, and supported Ashington Cricket Club.

The pub also hosted two North East Chamber of Commerce events.

To mark its first anniversary, The Highlander is offering a 10 per cent discount on all food and drinks to customers on Saturday, September 14.

Evening entertainment has been arranged as part of the celebrations.

Unveiled Venues’ group director, Anthony Hunter, said: "We’ve had a fantastic first year and it’s been great to open the doors again to welcome back the local community, who have been a wonderful support to Rob and the team.

"It has also been a pleasure hosting a range of private parties for old friends and new, along with supporting a range of local events.

"As a new venture, the support from our customers in what has been a difficult year for many has been greatly appreciated.

"With that in mind, we wanted to give back where we could with our 'Kids Eat Free during School Holidays' offer, something which we will look to continue, and why we want to offer our loyal customers a discount on our first birthday.

"It really is a simple ‘thank you’ from us."

General manager Robert Routledge added: "After enjoying our first year, we’re looking forward to building on our experience and we are excited to be opening the diary for festive bookings and Christmas parties which are just around the corner.

"The Highlander has been a place for family and friends to gather for many years, and the team and I look forward to keeping that tradition going."

The Highlander is part of Unveiled Venues, an award-winning hospitality group which includes wedding venues Ellingham Hall and Lemmington Hall.