A RESTAURANT is celebrating its tenth anniversary in business by pledging to raise money for ten charities throughout the year.

The County, which is situated at the heart of Aycliffe Village, plans to raise as much money as it can for a number of charities, including The Salvation Army, St Teresa’s Hospice and Women’s Aid.

The restaurant commemorated its birthday with treats for its customers, including a cake and a £10 voucher to be used in the restaurant.

Joint business owner Colette Farrell said: “I’m shocked that the past ten years have passed so quickly.

“We are incredibly thankful to all of our customers and staff who have supported us over the years.”

The last decade has seen several highlights for the restaurant, which employs 25 staff members, including the addition of seven luxury guest bedrooms in 2010 and winning the Northumbria Dining Award in 2014.

Over the past six years, Colette and fellow business owner Stuart Dale, have invested more than £150,000 refurbishing the restaurant and bedrooms.

She said: “We constantly work hard to make sure our restaurant and rooms are well-presented and welcoming for all of our visitors.

“The investment into the refurbishment has enabled us to increase footfall and attract new customers, which is fantastic.”

The couple believe the reason for the success of the business is down to the team’s hard work and dedication, mixed with the high-quality of food, customer service and excellent location.

“We have also benefited from an apprenticeship scheme as two of our chefs, Callum McFadden and Scott Marriott, who have now been with us for four years, started at The County as apprentices,” said Colette.

“Support from the locals in the village and surrounding businesses in Newton Aycliffe Business Park is fantastic and we can’t thank them enough.

“We are looking forward to the next ten years and we can’t wait to see what they have in store for us!”