The new owners of a popular Chinese restaurant have thanked the public for their emphatic support.

Golden Dragon, on Hexham’s Battle Hill, opened under new ownership last Saturday 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 11th hour, the landlord agreed to offer a short extension to the lease.

But September 20 proved to be the last day of trading under Wil’s ownership with hungry locals keen to see the restaurant reopen.

Golden Dragon has built a reputation as one of the Tyne Valley’s top takeaway spots, and Wil expressed his delight at finding new owners for the business so soon.

Speaking on Saturday before opening, he said: “I’m excited to announce that the new owners are finally opening.

“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.

“I have given them as much advice and they are really keen to support the local community in the future.”

Golden Dragon has served only as a takeaway during this year’s lockdowns but has been a staple dining venue for residents after 15 years of trading.

And the new owners hope to continue the business' positive reputation.

A post on social media 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.”

The Golden Dragon reintroduced its long-distance delivery service this week, in Allendale and Alston on Tuesday and Haltwhistle and Haydon Bridge on Thursday."