A COUPLE who have switched from the motor trade to the hotel business are planning to sink £200,000 into their new venture.

John and Carolyn Wheeler bought Helme Park Hall Country House Hotel, at Fir Tree, near Crook, in December.

The couple plan to spend the money refurbishing the 13-bedroom business and hope to upgrade to four-star status.

Mr Wheeler, 58, previously ran a Vauxhall dealership in Stanley for 12 years before buying the hotel. He believes there are similarities in the two trades, saying: "It's something I've always wanted to do and I pride myself on customer service, which is really what the hotel business is all about. I think it has great potential. The views and the grounds are superb, and when the sun comes up on a morning and you look down the valley it is tremendous."

All 34 members of staff were taken on when the Wheelers bought the business. The hotel has four crowns and is a highly recommended hotel with the English Tourist Board and has three star status from the AA and RAC.

Refurbishment is expected to last three months and the hotel will remain open throughout.

The couple's plans include upgrading the kitchens and bathroom suites, replacing some furniture, repairing some of the ceilings, redesign the reception area, and redecorate with new carpets throughout.

The function suite can hold 200 people and the pair are hoping to attract businesses to stage their meetings and conferences there.

"Our aim is to get downstairs done as quickly as possible so we don't disrupt the customers," said John, whose daughter Christine will also be helping in the business.