An extensive renovation of a former church in Preston city centre is nearly complete to turn it into a new restaurant.

Fishergate Baptist Church will reopen as French-gastro chain Bistrot Pierre.

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Dating back to the 19th century the building, with its iconic stopped clock, is going to be one of the largest restaurants in the city.

The restaurant had hoped to be open by Spring 2018 but had slipped its opening date back as work took slightly longer than expected.

It will have space for more than 200 diners set over two floors and outdoor seating in good weather.

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More than 50 jobs are being created by the opening of the restaurant.

It will begin serving on Monday 6 August.

A spokeswoman for Bistrot Pierre said: “Our bistrot will be in a prime location opposite the Fishergate Shopping Centre, adjacent to the busy train station and within walking distance of Preston Guild Hall. We’re so excited to have such an incredible location – the 19th Century Baptist Church has stood in the town-centre for almost 160 years.

“Our ‘raison d’être’ is great value French cooking and seasonal menus. We like to combine French bistrot classics such as steak-frites, boeuf bourguignon and crème brûlée with our own take on regional favourites like tarte flambée, confit de canard and pâté de campagne. Our relaxed and friendly bistrots are the place to go for any occasion.”

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Bistrot Pierre began in Nottingham in 1995 and now has 21 restaurants across the UK.

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