LORD Gisborough is to retake full commercial control of his family seat, Gisborough Hall, in April next year.

The four-star hotel, in Guisborough, has been part of the Macdonald group since 2002 – but now Lord Gisborough and his family, supported by a newly-appointed board of directors, will take over the running of the 19th century baronial mansion.

They are planning a multi-million pound investment, including a new spa, which it is hoped will be open by the end of 2017.

The team, made up of over 100 local employees, will remain the same with more jobs being created with the opening of the new spa.

Gisborough Hall has been a Macdonald Associate since 2002, when the hall became a hotel

Nick Holmes, who was managing director of Rockliffe Hall in Hurworth, near Darlington, for six years, has been appointed non-executive director to aid transition and support future spa and leisure proposals.

Gisborough Hall and is home to two AA Rosette restaurant ‘Chaloner’s’, a spa, 71 bedrooms and a bar and bistro, as well as a ballroom, traditional drawing room, conservatory and events spaces.

Mr Holmes said: “As we approach our 15th anniversary next year the time is right for us to ‘go it alone’.

"It allows us to invest and develop as we see appropriate for both the local community and also to encourage visitors to the region.”

Lord Gisborough said: “Being part of the Macdonald Hotel Group has been a fantastic experience. They have provided us with the opportunity to grow and, with their leadership, we have been able to really put the hotel on the map. For this we are extremely grateful and we wish them all the best.”

A Macdonald Hotels Group spokesperson added: “We have very much enjoyed our association with Gisborough Hall Hotel and we wish the owners and staff every success in the future.”