A PROMINENT town centre building is up for sale as the owner moves onto a 'new chapter'.

Helen Cass, of Total Beauty, on Battle Hill, in Hexham, has been in the industry for 22 years.

But now, she is ready for a new venture, mentoring young people, while continuing to work part time in the beauty sector.

"On March 99, I started at Antonio's", said Helen.

"I then moved on to Battle Hill and bought the property four years later.

"I've done all aspects of beauty, from health spas, mobile teaching, Prince's Trust social services, tv, radio - we've raised money for charity, given vouchers away, done home visits and beauty parties."

And while Helen 'loves' her job and is proud of the reputation she has built up in the town, the move is to enable her to have more time to enjoy life and serve the community.

She said: "I want to do part time mentoring with youths, which I've done in the past, with social skills, interviewing, if I can get involved with schools or youth associations.

"With the property equity, I'm going to buy a new home with my finance, and when I retire, Lauren is going to continue Total Beauty."

Beauty therapist Lauren Westgarth has worked alongside Helen for 16 years, helping customers to feel confident, happy and healthy.

The building, which dates back to 1844 and was part of a stables connected to the coach house behind, is up for sale with Yopa and is described as a 'rare opportunity.'

The building's ground floor provides commercial use, while the first floor houses a two-bedroom flat.

The listing added that the property benefits from separate accesses, private yard and rear access, and overlooks Beaumont Street, The Sele Park and Hexham Abbey.