WHATLEY Manor, near Easton Grey, is to reopen as a 23-bedroom hotel next spring following a multi-million pound facelift.

Swiss rider Christian Landolt, 35, of Knockdown, Sherston, who competed at Badminton, is financing the project, which is being overseen by general manager Stephen Parry.

The venture, which was given planning permission last October, will create 70 new jobs in the area.

New facilities at the hotel will include a cinema, spa, swimming pool and bistro.

The house, which was built in the 1920s, had previously been run as a hotel by Mr Parry for his parents Trevor and Diana in the early 1970s. It was sold after 15 years.

The operation to bring Whatley Manor back to life as a luxurious hotel for more than 40 guests, has involved more than 70 people working on various aspects of the restoration, and the number is set to rise to 120 in June.

Mr Landolt said the hotel would attract business people and travellers, as well as local people, who would be able to use the new facilities.