A FOOD outlet which has been a mainstay in the centre of Hexham for many years has finally changed hands.

Amigo Food Court is under new ownership, which has been reflected by a change of name for the business.

The distinctive building next door to Hexham’s old bus station, on Priestpopple, was once a must visit for revellers departing the town’s former Dontino’s nightclub.

Now called Hexham Pizza, the business has began a new era under the direction of Saeed Garme.

It continues to sell takeaway food, and also has a limited amount of indoor seating space for customers.

Saeed is an experienced pizza chef, and also has a wide range of other choices on an extensive new menu, which includes everything from traditional burgers and kebabs, to tasty parmo dishes.

Saeed, who is originally from Iran, is a familiar face in Hexham, having previously worked at the town’s Pizza Pizza, as well as elsewhere in the North-East.

“I wanted to begin my own pizza venture,” he said on first foray into the world of business. “I know Hexham and I like the area. There is always demand for quality food and I wanted to give it a go here.”

Saeed moved to the UK in 2008, and learned his trade in Scotland, where he trained to become a pizza chef in Glasgow.

“I’m enjoying it here,” he said. “We’ve been open a couple of months now, and have invested in the business.

“This is a great location, very central, and we’ve had lots of good feedback. Customers have been loyal and very understanding of the Covid-19 situation.”

The new era brings the curtain down on the chapter of previous owner, Abdulazim Behnam Panahi, better known as Mr Amigo, who ran the takeaway for many years.

“Everyone knew it as Mr Amigo’s,” said Saeed. “It’s completely new now and I want to thank all the people who have supported us, and welcoming those who haven’t yet been. Visit https://hexhampizza.co.uk/