Racist graffiti has appeared on the building of a former popular hotel.

The writing has been daubed on the outside walls of the Eden Arms Hotel, at Rushyford, amid reports of the building undergoing renovation work.

The words 'no migrants', 'not wanted', and 'not welcome' can be seen near the former entrance of the building.

The hotel has become a local landmark due to its location on the roundabout for the A689 and A167 near Newton Aycliffe and Chilton and was once a thriving destination.

Its main selling point was its bar, large restaurant, and function rooms, as well as a leisure club with a fully equipped gym, indoor heated pool, and sauna.

And after it was finally sold this summer the new owners plan to invest heavily in the building to keep it trading as a hotel and hospitality operation.

The Northern Echo: Residents are concerned at the state of the building inside and outResidents are concerned at the state of the building inside and out (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

But the building has been closed for several years and residents are worried at the state of disrepair the building has fallen into.

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Residents say people have been seen working inside the building but it is not clear what work is taking place. Durham Police recently attended the site and ruled there was legitimate workers present who are contracted to work on the hotel.

“I do not approve of this and expect my neighbours feel the same,” one resident said. “The hotel is already hideous without it being defaced. Our concern as residents of Rushyford is to know what is happening there.”

Durham police has been contacted for comment.