When Carol Golden became manager of the Runhead this summer, she wanted to see it converted from a run-down boozer and "opened back up to the community". Essential in doing this to the pub in Old Ryton, outside Newcastle,was increasing the food offer and instigating a comprehensive refurbishment.
A £1m project has since given the pub wooden floors, comfy leather sofas, a sweeping modern-design bar, and an open kitchen. Completed in only five weeks, the work has transformed the overgrown outside into an attractive al fresco area.
Carol says the pub has been given a whole new identity since her employer, DAV Development, bought it from a major pub company that she believes had allowed it to fall into disrepair.
"It was a den of iniquity," she says. "You had the most undesirable people in the world in here. They had let it go to ruin. It had torn carpets and stuffing coming out of the seats, grass was up to your knees outside, the building had been caught in a time warp. We were going for something a bit more contemporary but still a community pub."
She explains that having an open kitchen was seen as crucial to the pub becoming known for its food. Carol says: "That was a big priority. We said straight away that we could make a fortune with food here. The layout was there. It just needed someone with a bit of inspiration."
Also important was the outside area - an aspect that Carol wanted to accommodate families and smokers otherwise forced out into the open under cold Northern skies. A feature was made of plum trees found around the pub, and a patio was designed to landscape over wayward grassland. With the addition of sturdy benches, tables and chairs and shaded by large parasols incorporating heating and lighting, the 80-cover outside area made the pub complete.
"I have had amazing feedback," Carol summarises. "The customers thank me so much, which has made the hard work worthwhile. "We were able to turn the pub around to be welcoming. They are thankful for it being opened back up to the community."