A licensee says he is heartbroken to sell his pub at a knock-down price after a full refurbishment.

The Highwayman pub, just off the A693, at West Pelton near Stanley, does a roaring passing trade, but licensee Peter McFarling is selling up because of ill health.

His bad back has brought to an end a two-year stint at the pub that has seen it fully refurbished.

Property agent Christie and Co, of Newcastle, has cut the asking price from £79,000 to £59,000 because it had no takers.

The pub occupies an attractive spot, enticing trade from the nearby Beamish Open Air Museum.

Peter, who runs the pub with his wife, Val, said "It is heartbreaking because we have built it up over the last two years.

"We've spent a fair amount of money refurbishing the place and are reluctant to sell up in many ways. But I can't do anything about my bad back which needs two operations."

The pub includes a public bar, restaurant and lounge, catering kitchen, three-bedroom owner's accommodation with a private yard, 60-place customer car park and a patio area.