MAJOR structural repairs at a historic Hexham pub have secured the building for the future.

Work to redecorate the exterior of the Tap and Spile on Battle Hill last year revealed the original timber lintels, thought to date back to the 1800s, were showing signs of decay.

Decorative corbels on the exterior of the pub, which occupies a prime position on the corner of Eastgate, were not adequately supported and the decision was taken by owner Enterprise Inns to install new steel supports at ground floor and first floor level.

The work began in October but was halted to allow for a two-week road closure on Eastgate, which comes to an end on Monday morning.

“We’ve managed to stay open throughout but it’s been horrendous,” admitted landlady Jo Macintyre, who has run the pub for the last two and a half years.

“We’re known as a band pub but there have been times when the bands have been packed in like sardines while they’ve had half of the pub closed off.”

The pub is also used as a meeting place by string of community groups and much-loved by regulars for its selection of cask ales.

The walls of the pub are adorned with photos of its history and Jo recounted how it was once a butchers shop and was also known as the Criterion Hotel.

“Because it’s an old pub, the customers like it as it is, but they’ve all been supportive during the disruption,” said Jo, who runs the pub with a team of five staff.

The building repairs, carried out by Leeds-based RDF Building Services, are due to be completed this week and the redecoration work can then begin.

A spokesman from Enterprise said: “After a £48,000 investment, we’re delighted to say that good progress has been made on the renowned cask ale pub and it’s set to be restored to its former glory within a fortnight.

“We’d like to take this opportunity to thank the customers and local community for their continued support during this period.”