A HEXHAM pub is extending its festive menu for those who miss out on Christmas lunch.

Fiona Beck, the licensee at the County Hotel, wants to give more people the opportunity to enjoy a Christmas meal with friends, family and colleagues.

Having worked in the pub industry for a number of years, she is aware how difficult it can be for workers from the public, hospitality and retail sectors to organise parties around busy seasonal schedules and unsocial shift patterns.

To combat this, she is launching ‘Christmas in January’ which will see the Christmas menu at the pub run until January 13.

To accommodate this, the pub’s team have set up a dedicated separate area at the pub for parties which will remain festive once the Christmas decorations start to come down elsewhere.

Fiona said: “At the County Hotel, our team is passionate about catering for everyone in our local community and ensuring that everyone has a relaxing Christmas.

“Having those extra few weeks to provide a delicious Christmas feast to our customers who have to work during the busy festive holidays means that they don’t miss out on those important celebratory moments with their colleagues, family or loved ones.

“We’re incredibly excited to deliver this extended period of Christmas joy!”

Business development manager for pub chain Admiral Taverns ,Steve Birkett said: “It’s a lovely initiative and great example of the important role pubs can play at Christmas time in the community.”