THE FRENCH restaurant group Bistrot Pierre has announced that it will be opening its newest bistrot on Monday 6 August, reopening the doors of a historic, 19th Century Baptist church in Preston.

The 160-year-old, three-storey former church will be Bistrot Pierre's fourth restaurant in the North West and a team of specialists have been working on a very special restoration project, bringing one of the town's most iconic features back to life.

“This is an incredible space and is such an integral part of Preston's history,” said Robert Beacham, co-founder of Bistrot Pierre.

“We're incredibly proud to be opening in such a historic building so when we learnt that the clock – housed in an impressive clocktower - hadn't been in working order for more than three years we absolutely knew we wanted restore it.

“We're delighted to announce that it will now be showing the correct time all day, every day and has been intricately re-painted, serviced and restored to its former glory. It's now a permanent feature for the community - and future generations - to enjoy and be proud of.

“This project has really complemented the wider regeneration programme in Preston and we've already had a lot of positive feedback from residents, pleased to see the clock working again,” continued Robert.

The new restaurant has created 50 new jobs for the town and will seat more than 200 diners, with outdoor seating also available for 50 diners to enjoy summer evenings dining al fresco.

“We've also created a mezzanine level, which is truly breath-taking, and the dining area is truly wonderful space  

“Our Summer menu has also just launched, which has been developed by our team of talented and experienced chefs,” added Robert.

Bistrot Pierre opened its first bistrot more than 20 years ago and is renowned for its traditional, French bistrot-style of cooking.

“Our new Summer menu features a series of classic dishes we're known for including Pavé de Steak, as well as some new dishes including Salade de Canard – a Vietnamese, crispy duck salad – and Saumon Basque – which is a classic Basque dish of pan-fried salmon.

“I believe that it's our incredible food and value for money which really sets us apart – our Summer evening prix fixe menu offers two courses for £15.95 and is updated seasonally – and we're delighted that our customers can enjoy bistrot cooked dishes, cooked by our  chefs in this very special location.

“This is the first time we've opened a bistrot in a former church – we've managed to maintain its original features throughout and highlight some of the beautiful, architectural accents that make this building so incredible,” continued Robert.

To book a table at Preston's newest restaurant visit: bistrotpierre.co.uk/book-a-table.

ENDS