THE demolition of a pub in north Durham is under way.

Workmen started dismantling the Brancepeth Castle Inn, in Meadowfield, near Durham, yesterday.

They are taking off the roof tiles, removing stones and bricks from the timber for recycling, and saving the timber.

They expect to be able to complete the job today.

After Christmas, work will begin to create 11 one and two- bedroomed flats.

A spokesman for Teambuild Construction, which is carrying out the work, said: "The pub closed last year and was used historically as a meeting place for many people, and a lot of people in the area will have happy memories of being there.

"What will replace it will be modern housing of the very highest spec."

Teambuild Construction has agreed to set up a community fund with Durham City Council, which granted planning permission, to finance environmental improvements for people in Meadowfield.