Hall to stage candlelit business dinners

Hagley Hall is throwing open its doors to businesses across the Midlands by staging a candlelit Christmas dinner at the historic stately home.

The event will be held on December 18 and offering firms in the region a chance to entertain clients or reward employees in the run up to the festive season.

Two other dinner events on December 13 and 19 have already sold out with tables only remaining for the 18th.

Guests will be greeted with a champagne reception and a guided tour of the hall which will be decorated and warmed by open fires.

After the tour, a three-course meal will be served in the Hall's Long Gallery, before guests attend a Christmas Concerto performed by the Heart of England Strings.

Each of the events will conclude with the singing of Christmas carols by candlelight.

It is the first time the hall has staged this kind of event and is part of a programme ongoing though the year to raise funds to renovate the entire estate.

Cash raised will go towards maintenance of the hall along with its 350 acres of landscaped park and on-site monuments.

The 12th Viscount Cobham Christopher Lyttelton set up the programme after taking over the ancestral seat following the death of his elder brother John last year.

He said the estate would have to work for its living and many events have been staged at the site over the past year – including celebrations for the 100th anniversary of the West Midlands Territorial Army.

Lord Cobham said: "Hagley Hall was built for entertaining and it is very fitting that it should work for its long term future, doing what it does best – entertaining in the heart of its community."

Businesses interested are advised to book at the earliest chance by ringing 01562 887290 due to the success of the event.

Tickets are £45, including a glass of champagne, three-course dinner and coffee.