A new owner has been found for the premises formerly owned by Hexham and District Ex-Service Club at 1 Hallstile Bank, Hexham, almost a year after the chimney stack collapsed onto neighbouring Bob’s Barbers, closing Hallstile Bank.

Gillian Sayburn and Andrew Little, partners at BTG in Newcastle, were appointed joint liquidators of the club in September 2025 following its insolvency. After marketing the property, they have completed its sale, bringing an end to months of uncertainty over the future of the property and the access to neighbouring businesses.

Gillian Sayburn said: "We're really pleased to have secured a buyer for the property, enabling repair work to begin, after both the building and the street have been in limbo for almost a year.

“The sale marks a positive step for the future of the building, The new owners Auld Joe’s Limited, a Hexham based business, intend to undertake a programme of repairs and improvements aimed at restoring the property and bringing it back into use.”

A spokesperson for Auld Joe's said: "As long-time members, we were saddened that the Ex-Servicemen's Club could not be saved and was ultimately forced into liquidation. The club has been an important part of the local community for many years and holds many happy memories for people.

"We're committed to giving the building a new lease of life, while respecting its history and its place within the community. We hope local residents will support us as we begin an exciting new chapter.”

He added: “We're looking forward to getting the renovation work underway and creating a welcoming space that people can once again be proud of. Most of all, we look forward to seeing familiar faces back at the bar and bringing the community together once again."