A GRADE I Listed luxury hotel in West Devon which was the subject of a major refurbishment by Olga Polizzi, niece of hotel magnate Rocco Forte, has been bought by one of the world's most exclusive clubs.

The 16-bedroom Hotel Endsleigh, near Milton Abbot, has been bought by the Everlands Life Destination Club.

It means that the exclusive hotel, where the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall stayed during their visit to Tavistock last year, will ultimately by owned by 100 Everlands members, who can pay more than half a million pounds to join the club.

Olga Polizzi made the decision to sell the hotel when her daughter, Alex, who ran it for three years, had a baby girl.

Alex Polizzi has said it was 'a huge wrench' to sell the hotel, which she said was 'very special'.

Everlands say that their properties are selected for the best in class sporting and outdoor experiences, unique locations, historical reference and authenticity.

James Millership, co-founder of Everlands, said: 'The only changes that will be made to Endsleigh will be entirely in keeping with its unique heritage and with a view to conserving and protecting the property and its spectacular grounds.

Mr Millership said Everlands would be investing in Endsleigh.

'There are a number of projects that staff at the hotel are keen to undertake, however, to date the funds have not been available.

'We will look to support these initiatives and will work closely with the team to achieve some long standing wishes for the property.'

Mr Millership said the purchase of Endsleigh would not have an impact on staff at the hotel.

He said: 'Everlands is excited about working with the remarkable team at the hotel who are at the heart of its continuing success as one of the UK's best loved country retreats. There are no plans to make any staffing changes.

'Endsleigh has an outstanding reputation and it is very special to us.

'We are proud to be custodians of this magnificent country estate in one of England's finest unspoilt natural areas.'