Rishi Sunak has praised fresh investment in the hospitality industry during a visit to a recently refurbished hotel.
Mr Sunak toured the Fleece Hotel in Richmond and met with owner Ben Wilkinson and the hotel’s management team to view the upgrades to the bar, kitchen, hotel rooms, and public areas.
The hotel, which closed for two weeks in January while the works were completed, has since reopened with modernised facilities.
Mr Sunak said: "It was great to visit the Fleece Hotel and see the investment Ben and his team are making in the hotel and in Richmond more widely.
"Businesses willing to back our market towns and invest in local hospitality play an important role in supporting jobs, attracting visitors and keeping our towns thriving."
During the visit, discussions focused on confidence in Richmond’s hospitality sector and the importance of continued investment in the town centre.
Mr Wilkinson shared his broader plans for the town, including development of the former Barclays and TSB bank buildings, alongside proposals to develop Friary Lodge, opposite the Fleece Hotel, into a sister site with a luxury spa offering.
He said: "We were delighted to welcome Rishi to the venue to learn more about our business, the recent refurbishment works we have undertaken, and our exciting plans.
"It was fantastic to see Rishi’s genuine interest in the venue."
The visit comes after the Fleece Hotel was recognised at the Richmond Business Awards 2026, where it won Best Dog Friendly Establishment and the Tourism Award for Hospitality and Retail.
Mr Sunak serves as the MP for Richmond and Northallerton.
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