A HALTWHISTLE fishmonger has reopened after a rapid refurbishment which saw it double in size.

Billy Bell’s fishmonger has been part of the town’s Market Place for 80 years, after being founded by the Bell family in the 1930s.

The business, now run by father and son Miles and Cameron Bell, has bought the neighbouring former book shop.

The dividing wall has been knocked through, and the additional space has enabled the pair to increase their offering.

After a brief closure last week, the shop has reopened, with a bakery and a freezer section in the new extended area.

Cameron said it complements the fresh meat, fish and game which has always been a mainstay of the business.

He added: “We are still a traditional fishmonger and I think people appreciate that.

“We’ve had to adapt though, and do our best to cater for needs of people, and extending the shop has enabled us to do that.

“We’ve been based here for generations, and this is a historic development for Billy Bell’s.

“It has been well received by people this week, and they have been keen to come in and have a look.”