A NEW community hub and bistro will open this summer in Stow.

Work will get underway this month on converting the historic Station House.

As well as becoming a bar/bistro, the railside building will also become home to a cycling social enterprise and host other community facilities.

Helen Corcoran from Stow Community Development Trust, said: “This is great news for the project that has been supported by so many in the community and by our partners.

"The excitement will build between now and the end of August when the new facility will open its doors to customers.

“The Station House was built in 1839 and has been empty since 2013 but thanks to the work of many local people in the village over a number of years, our new facilities will create a warm inviting location to enjoy food, drink and great company in the newly refurbished building.

“The addition of a social enterprise cycling business will provide local access to cycle repair services and re-conditioned bikes, helping to put Stow firmly on the cycling map.”

Hawick builders James Swinton and Co have been appointed to carry out the renovation work.

Central to the development is the provision of a community and visitor hub for road cycling and walking heritage trails, as well as the establishment within the building of a multi-purpose room for community, business and private use.