A FORMER pub has been given a new lease of life and transformed into an antique shop and cafe.

The old Swan’s Head pub, Townhead Alston, had been closed for eight years until it was converted by Julie Coonan with the help of husband Tom.

They opened the antique shop in June, when lockdown restrictions began to ease, followed by the cafe in July.

Now they are working on improving the signage at the once popular pub, situated at the top of the main street.

Julie said: “It still looks like a pub from the outside.

“People walk up the hill and see the building ahead of them, but if you come close enough you realise that there’s something different in store.

“It has always been a pub, so we had to get the balance right.

“We want to retain its characteristics and who knows? It might become a pub again in the future.”

Originally from London, the couple bought the Swan’s Head three years ago after an 18-month spell where Tom’s work in the construction industry took them to New Zealand.

Julie added: “We wanted to come back home to the UK.

“We looked at Scotland but settled on Alston.

“It’s the sort of place which sucks you in and you feel as though you belong here - we love Alston.”

Despite an original plan to reopen the pub, the retirement of Janice Bell who ran an antique shop nearby, last December, gave the couple an idea.

Julie said: “Janice was fully behind us.

“We’ve always enjoyed antiques as well as vintage clothing, and thought it would be a good opportunity to source unique items which appeal to people.”

Items on offer include antique furniture, household items together with vintage jackets, hats, shoes and bags.

The shop also supports local artists and craftspeople, by showcasing their work which is also available for sale.

Julie praised the 'great' business community in the area, adding: “Everyone in Alston tries to support each other. The locals pop in for a coffee and a bite to eat, and if they want, they can have a look at what else we have to offer while they are here.

“There’s a great business community in Alston too. I think we all complement each other. People visit our town for a morning or afternoon out, and the unique shops are a huge part of that experience.” For information visit wansheads.co.uk