A GEORGIAN mansion that was once home to an acclaimed inventor has been named as Yorkshire's best wedding venue.

Solberge Hall, near Northallerton overcame competition from 17 other shortlisted hotels after newlyweds voted in the North East Wedding Awards.

The awards recognise hotels that are prepared to go the extra mile for their customers in 18 different categories.

Solberge Hall, which was built in 1824 and became home to steel industry innovator Benjamin Talbot shortly before the First World War, has hosted 65 weddings this year.

It was bought and revamped last year by Classic Lodges, which also runs Grinkle Park Hotel, near Whitby, and The Old Swan, in Harrogate.

James Thompson, the hotel's general manager, said the award was a testament to his team’s hard work and that the hotel had increased our wedding bookings for next year.