ONE of the region’s oldest hotels has been sold to a neighbouring family of hoteliers.

The Rose and Crown at Romaldkirk in Teesdale, County Durham, has been sold by Chris and Alison Davy to the owners of nearby Headlam Hall, the Robinson family.

John Robinson, his wife Ann and their family have owned four-star Headlam Hall since 1978 and have built the hotel, spa and golf club up.

Thomas Robinson, Headlam’s Managing Director has announced that his wife Cheryl will join the Rose and Crown team working alongside the current manager, Matt Scott, and the existing team of staff.

Thomas Robinson said: “We are delighted to have acquired The Rose and Crown from the Davy’s, who have done an excellent job in building the business to the point where it is one of the finest inns in the region.”

Chris and Alison Davy have owned The Rose and Crown, an 18th century coaching inn, since 1989, before which it had been owned by David Jackson, currently Headlam Hall’s Operations Director.

Mr Davy said: “‘We have had 23 enormously happy and successful years at The Rose and Crown.

“However, with retirement beckoning it is time to start enjoying life at a rather more leisurely pace.”