THE Moorland Links Hotel at Yelverton has been sold and is under new management. Formerly part of the Forestdale Hotels Group, the hotel is now owned privately and will become the 'Moorland Garden Hotel' later this month.

The business has been bought by Sonia and Brian Meaden, who have owned many successful businesses in the past and most recently have built up an excellent reputation at the Nobody Inn in Doddiscombsleigh.

The 45-bedroom Moorland Garden Hotel is situated in nine acres of moorland. Mr Meaden has already announced his plans for the hotel to its staff, all of whom will remain.

He said the planned investment in refurbishment and updating of all the amenities would make the hotel unique in a beautiful location. 'Under the new name we look forward to building on new and existing relationships both locally and further afield.'

Manager Frank Postel will remain at the hotel to oversee the changes and says the staff are looking forward to the future: 'We are very much inspired by the developments that the new owners have planned for the hotel.

'For the weddings, special events, conferences, guests and diners already booked, it is business as usual and we look forward to welcoming those guests, as well as extending a warm welcome to all newcomers.'

The hotel was sold for an undisclosed sum from a guide price of £1.3-million freehold.

Christie + Co's Exeter office acted on behalf of the vendors. Commenting on the sale, Simon Harvey, director of Christie + Co's Exeter office said: 'We were delighted to have introduced this opportunity to a private buyer who completed this transaction within six weeks. This deal emphasises buyers' appetite for the right property, particularly where realistic pricing reflects market sentiment.

'Despite these challenging market conditions, Christie + Co received strong interest in this opportunity, selecting the eventual purchaser on their credible strength to complete the deal quickly. We wish them continued success with this hotel.'

Designs for the hotel's new interiors can be viewed on the soon to be launched website: http://www.moorlandgardenhotel.co.uk">www.moorlandgardenhotel.co.uk