Weston Hall revamp takes shape

This is the latest peek inside Staffordshire's Weston Hall since work began on a revamp. The new owner has announced it will reopen on November 15.

The 16th Century hotel is being transformed, with greys and whites replacing the former brown and pink decor, while chrome has been favoured over dated gold-effect fittings.

Work has finished on the bedrooms, kitchens and event rooms.

Builders have now moved into the restaurant, which has been renamed The Cellar. Carpets have been ripped out and sandstone flooring put down.

Wedding inquiries have been coming in at the rate of around 25 to 30 a week, although bookings are not being taken before January 2013.

Event manager Hannah Petrouis said the Grade II-listed building was well-known in the wider community.

The 23-year-old daughter of the new owner, Lichfield-based businessman Mike Petrouis, remembers her first sight of the hall. "When I drove up, I thought 'Wow'. Inside it just needed a bit of love and attention. It's been nice to have been in from the start and watched the progress," she said.

"Since work began, people have been really interested to know what we're doing here which is why we're holding an open weekend next month."

Martin Hirst, Weston Hall's head of operations, said up to 15 workmen were working six days a week. He said: "The big focus at the moment is The Cellar, which will serve gastro pub food but in nicer surroundings."