THE boss of a blaze-damaged nightspot is hoping to pay staff and creditors within the next six weeks.

Duncan Adamson, managing director of Martholme Grange, Altham, said a business interruption claim following a fire at the premises had been approved by the insurance company.

Mr Adamson said the amount had not been finalised and no money had yet come through, but he hoped to receive the insurance pay-out within the next six weeks.

He said: "That is the one that will come by cheque to Martholme Grange and will pay the outstanding creditors."

All the creditors, including employees owed wages and suppliers, will be paid in full, added Mr Adamson.

He said: "As soon as payments come through to the company I will be issuing cheques to all the creditors."

Meanwhile work has just begun on a £250,000 refurbishment of the pub and restaurant.

The project has been made possible by the insurers approving a separate claim to restore the fire-damaged premises.

Mr Adamson said the insurers will pay the money direct to the building firm so there is no available money from that part of the claim to pay creditors what they are owed.

Work on the refurbishment of the former manor house is expected to be completed by October.

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