Dozens of pubs could soon be axed after a major chain announced it was putting some of its sites up for sale amid soaring costs - including in County Durham and the wider North East.

Marston's Brewery has put 61 pubs up for sale following a review of its estate, which include three in the region from its vast portfolio.

The chain has more than 1,400 pubs across the UK, but it said it now wants to 'maximise returns' by focusing on its core venues.

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Pubs in the Midlands, Yorkshire, Sussex and Wales have been put on the market by Marston's. Among them is 192-year-old Crooked House, West Midlands - which is famed for is wonky design. 

This includes Derwent Walk in Consett, Jacksons Wharf in Hartlepool and Floaters Mill in Fence Houses. 

Last year, Marston's ramped up the price of a pint by 45p, breaking the £4 barrier in many areas for the first time. 

Nik Antona, national chairman of the group, told MailOnline: "CAMRA is always concerned when pubs could be lost to the communities they serve. It is vital that these venues are marketed as going concerns and everything possible is done to secure their future as community pubs – including giving existing licensees first refusal of buying their pub.

"This news comes as CAMRA statistics show that 21 pubs a week are closing for business or losing their licences. This week’s Budget will be make or break for the future of many of our beloved locals up and down the country."

Here are the pubs that will be up for sale in the North East:

  • Floaters Mill, Fence Houses
  • Jacksons Wharf, Hartlepool
  • Derwent Walk, Consett