Mr Mattock added that the businesses were in good locations and often had interesting features, histories or locations that set them apart.

"One of the bars used to be a church and another is situated just off Northumberland Street – Newcastle’s shopping thoroughfare," he said.

The properties that have changed hands are: Shooters on Bridge Street, Morpeth; Reform Place on North Road, Durham; Shamrox on Claypath, Durham; Sammy Jacks on Front Street, Tynemouth and Shamrox on Northumberland Road, Newcastle.

Mr Mattock added: "Publicans have a raw deal at the moment, but well-run locals or town centre bars will always be in demand – they are part of the British way of life and that isn’t about to change anytime soon. We fully expect to be helping successful landlords and pub companies take over new premises for many years to come."

Reform Place in Durham was sold to Tony Brookes, owner of the successful Head of Steam chain, which holds regular live music events at its individualised venues in Newcastle, Huddersfield, Liverpool and London.

Two pubs from the original Centro portfolio – which called its last orders in November 2008 – are still to be sold. One, Jimmy Allens, occupies a former dungeon on Elvet Street, Durham. The other outstanding property is Victoria’s on Low Row, Sunderland.