TWO historic Darlington pubs are looking to a brighter future after major refurbishment projects.

Work is continuing on the former Bull's Head, in the market place, to convert the building back into a pub and restaurant.

The building, next to the Pennyweight pub, is listed and dates back to the 18th Century.

It was last a pub in 1956 and has since been an amusement centre and cafe, but has been boarded up for much of the past 50 years.

Another pub looking to reopen is The Greyhound Hotel, in Parkgate.

It was opened in 1848, but the latest refit will be a rare upheaval for the building.

In 1903, the entire outer facade was rebuilt, adding a third floor to the premises.

Later expansions saw the hotel take over neighbouring shops and the removal of interior features including coal fireplaces that once dominated the bar area.

A spokesperson for Admiral Taverns, the group that owns the hotel, said: "We are looking for a new landlord for the Greyhound Hotel and would love to hear from anyone who is interested in running this pub.

"Anyone interested can call us on 01923-726367, or visit www.

admiraltaverns.com for further information."

Officials at the Darlington branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) said they would be delighted to see the pubs reopened.

Ian Jackson, webmaster for the group, said: "It's obviously sad to see one of our real pubs currently closed, in particular the Greyhound as it features in Camra's National Inventory Pubs publication."