DEPUTY registrar general for England and Wales Andrew Dent was in Tynedale on Friday to officially open Hexham House.

Mr Dent, who is a member of the Royal Victorian Order (MVO) in recognition of his service to the monarchy, joined local businesses owners, councillors and those involved in the restoration project to take a tour of the building.

The Grade II listed former council offices have undergone a £1.5m face-lift to convert them into a wedding complex, with the creation of a new register office, two ceremony rooms and seven luxury, self-catering holiday apartments, complete with a bridal suite.

Northumberland County Councillor Nick Oliver, cabinet member for corporate services, said: “This historic building has been sympathetically restored and it is fantastic to see it brought back to life with such a great new purpose.

“With the wedding industry bringing up to £30m into the county each year, the venue is expected to provide a big boost to the local economy.”

Last year, Northumberland registrars officiated over 1,700 marriages, with around 65 per cent of the couples travelling from outside the county.

Mr Dent said: “I know people come from all over the world to attend weddings in Northumberland. It’s an industry that has helped put this county on the map – and one which shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

“Hexham House is a beautiful venue and I am sure it will be a real asset to the town.”

Watch a video of the first wedding to take place at Hexham House, on September 1, below.