AN HISTORIC hall whose future was under threat is thriving again as a hotel.

Grade II-listed Steeton Hall was bought by a local family about a year ago after it had stood empty for months.

Now the landmark building, in Station Road, is bustling and once again a community focal point.

Angela Armitage, her husband Paul and brother-in-law Andrew took on the premises last May.

"It had been closed for about 11 months," said Mrs Armitage, who lives at nearby Hawkcliffe.

"There was a lot needed doing to the place – it was a big project to tackle – but we saw the potential. It's a wonderful building.

"We wanted to modernise the hall yet retain its features.

"Structurally there were limitations as to what we could do because of the building's status – even the ceilings are listed – so everything had to be done sympathetically."

An extensive multi-thousand pound refurbishment was carried out.

Everything from bedrooms and bathrooms to decorations and furnishings underwent a makeover, and new flooring, a bar and conservatory were installed.

The hotel opened just in time for the arrival in the area of the Tour de France Grand Depart last July.

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"We opened on the Friday and the race came through on the Sunday!" said Mrs Armitage.

"Then in August we introduced dining.

"The feedback we have received has been fantastic.

"When the hall was closed a lot of people felt part of the community was missing and now they are pleased to see it back."

The hotel, which employs nearly 40 staff, is planning several events.

A Las Vegas-themed casino night on Saturday (Apr 25), from 7.30pm, will raise money for Manorlands.

The event will include stud poker, roulette, blackjack and a wheel of fortune, followed by musical entertainment.

For tickets, priced £15, call 01535 656060.

The hotel is also staging a wedding fair, on May 17.

Steeton Hall, once a family home, was converted into a hotel and restaurant in 1983.

It was run under temporary management from April 2013 following the sudden departure of the previous tenant, until it closed that summer.

The then-owner, Punch Taverns, put the property on the market in September 2013.