Shocked Stafford hotel staff in fear for their jobs
The future of a landmark hotel in Staffordshire was in doubt today after it suddenly went into administration.
Worried staff at Tillington Hall Hotel, in Stafford, have been told it is "business as usual" and the hotel remains open. However, administrators confirmed they had been placed in control.
Workers who contacted the Express & Star about the shock news said they feared for their jobs.
The 91-bedroom venue in Eccleshall Road caters for weddings and conferences for up to 250 guests or delegates.
Katie Smith, spokesman for administrators Moorfields Corporate Recovery, said: "Simon Thomas and Shelley Bullman of Moorfields Corporate Recovery LLP have been appointed administrators over Tillington Hall Hotel Ltd.
"The popular hotel located in the heart of England, in the county town of Stafford includes 91 bedrooms, conference and events facilities and a restaurant and bar. The hotel is located close to the M6 and in an ideal location to explore local attractions.
"Moorfields will continue to trade the hotel to maintain the business and protect value whilst it is marketed for sale."
Tillington Hall has been a hotel in Stafford since 1969 and is considered one of the town's top hotels.
While the hotel is seeking new owners, it was continuing to operate as normal yesterday. Staff were on duty and guests were being accepted. There was even building work under way.
MP for Stafford, Jeremy Lefroy, said: "I hope that the administrators will be able to preserve the venue as a viable business and that jobs at the hotel are maintained."
Mr Lefroy added he was confident a buyer who would retain the building as a hotel would be found.
"The hotel is in a good location and I believe there will be a lot of interest in the site," he said.
Stafford borough councillor Peter Goodland said the hotel going into administration was a blow for the town.
