BUDDHIST monks blessed Durham City's first Thai restaurant when it officially opened its doors yesterday.

Durham City MP Gerry Steinberg cut the ribbon at the Numjai restaurant in Millburngate Centre.

Local business leaders, civic dignitaries and customers were entertained by Thai dancers in traditional costume before sitting down to a buffet meal.

General manager Pradit Manakit said being blessed by the monks, who travelled from the Thai temple in Birmingham, was an important honour.

"This is a very important tradition and is a way of Thai life," he said.