A NEW general manager has been appointed to lead the team at a popular North-East hotel.

Rob Warren will bring more than 25 years of experience in the industry to his new role at Hardwick Hall Hotel, near Sedgefield.

The former general manager at Harrogate’s The Yorkshire Hotel joins the venue following a major refurbishment.

The four-star hotel is home to the Rib Room Steakhouse and Grill and is known for holding large scale events, including the annual Lobster Ball, which will be held on April 27.

Mr Warren, of Knaresborough, said: “There is always something going on and what makes the hotel really challenging is that it achieves high standards across the board; in catering in service and in terms of its facilities.”