[H]usband and wife duo Wayne and Kaye Jackson have taken ownership of an historic Georgian mansion hotel and function venue with the backing of NatWest.
The couple, who previously owned a milk processing dairy, have decided to swap wellies for weddings, with the purchase of Greenhill Hotel in Wigton, Cumbria.
Over the next 12 months, Wayne and Kaye plan to spend a substantial amount on renovating the listed building, including a revamp of the grand ballroom which hosts groups of up to 320 people for weddings and functions. The 213-year old hotel’s 12 bedrooms will also be modernised as part of the ongoing renovation.
Wayne and Kaye have retained all staff as part of the switchover, including the general manager, Malcolm Scott who has helped run the hotel for more than 15 years.
Wayne, who is taking his first step into the hospitality sector, said: “After 32 years of working in agriculture it came time to sell the dairy and take on a new challenge. Greenhill hotel was owned by a local investment firm and had been for sale for some time so the timing was perfect.
“Along with our daughters we intend on running Greenhill Hotel as a family business and continuing to grow the customer base by providing top class customer service and an unforgettable experience for guests.”
Mark Ward, Relationship Manager at NatWest, said: “Greenhill Hotel is a beautiful property located in an impressive setting and it’s fantastic to see a local family taking on the running of the business. We wish Wayne and Kaye all they best as they embark on their new business, and look forward to seeing the hotel prosper as the renovations are completed.”
David Allen of David Allen Accountants in Dalston, helped put the deal together. David said: “This is a great opportunity for a local, well respected family, with a proven track record of success to take over the business. The Greenhill Hotel will shortly be a real success story and we are proud to support Wayne, Kaye and their family.”
