A VACANT pub is in line for an investment worth a quarter of a million pounds – but only if the right tenant can be found.

Community pub company Admiral Taverns has been searching for new licensees for the Coach and Horses on Hexham’s Priestpopple for around 18 months.

Recruitment executive Alex Kitchen explained that the company was looking for the right person to take on the task.

She said: “We know it needs work but we haven’t started the work yet because we want the licensee to have an input.

“It would be a shared vision between the two partners, because it’s their own business. We’re looking at putting in around £250,000 for a full refit.

“Hexham is such a lovely part of the world, and we know it gets a lot of tourists coming through.

“We’re looking for an experienced operator, because it’s not just the pub it’s the food and the letting rooms too.”

An investment package for the business states that the building would be repainted and new signage and lighting installed.

Inside, there would be a full internal decoration with new lighting, the bar would be refurbished and the kitchen would be upgraded, while new seating and refurbished toilets would also be installed. The five letting rooms would be fully redecorated, with ensuite bathrooms and new furnishings added, while the private accommodation would also be redecorated.

Steve Birkett, business development manager at Admiral, said he wanted to create a similar experience to the one at The County Hotel, in Hexham, which is also owned by Admiral.

He said: “You can’t invest in a business that only gets £2 a pint. It’s a more about the experience – you go there and you feel great.

“Looking at the market around here, there’s room for more like The County. To be honest, all you need for a great night is two places. The two will complement each other well.”