A POPULAR Chinese restaurant is due to open under new management this weekend.

Golden Dragon, on Hexham's Battle Hill, is under new ownership after long-serving former owner Wil Cheung stepped down from the business.

The restaurant and takeaway was set to close its doors in May after 15 years of trading. However at the eleventh hour, the landlord agreed to offer a short extension to the lease.

In a social media post informing customers of the news Wil said: "I’m excited to announce that the new owners are finally opening this evening. As a promise I made, myself and my manager will be helping operations for a few weeks as they settle in, the great news is I’ve tried the food and it’s amazing!

"I really hoped I would be able to find suitable owners, and I’m sure over time as you meet them and eventually when they reopen as a restaurant you will find they are lovely folks!"

Golden Dragon, which has served only as a takeaway during this year's lockdown's, has become a staple dining venue for residents after 15 years of trading.

And the new owners hope to continue the businesses positive reputation.

A post on Facebook said: "Please note we are a new management team and new kitchen team, with upgraded equipment and a slightly different way of preparing our food.

"We have many years of experience and working with the previous owners are taking guidance and support initially to deliver as high as possible standards.

"The best way to enjoy our food is to not expect it to be the same as the previous takeaway but as a new experience, we are confident you will enjoy our tasty food."