Bouchon Bistrot has opened its new roof terrace - just in time for the heatwave.

The two storey outdoor extension has been in the planning for three and a half years, but this week owner Gregory Bureau welcomed the first customers to enjoy the outdoor area.

Located at the back of the restaurant in Gilesgate, the south facing terrace catches the sun all day, and is a spectacular vantage point to see the sun setting over Hexham in the evenings.

Gregory said: "I decided around three and a half years ago to have an extension at the back ad refurbish the restaurant. We went full blast on the building work.

"We thought there was a lack of something like this in Hexham."

After ironing out issues with listed building consent, Gregory and the team took advantage of the first lockdown to get the groundwork underway.

The second lockdown in November saw the project get into full swing.

He said: "I was a bit apprehensive. It is a bit daunting taking on a project like this, but we have added so much space to the restaurant. I'm delighted with the finish."

The outdoor terrace has proved popular with the first customers who have visited this week.

Gregory said: "People are loving it. At the beginning of the week it was too hot for lunches but we were serving at night. The feedback has been really good

"We are trying to take it easy. At the moment we only have six tables, as we are waiting for furniture and with staff issues we have to go very carefully. 

"Currently we are not taking bookings but we will take requests if people want to sit outside.

"It is still North East England, and we don't know what the weather will be doing in three hours time!"

Bouchon Bistrot serves French cuisine in the traditional country style from Tuesday to Saturday, lunchtime and evenings.