A man is returning to Cumbria to take over the running of an award-winning hotel in Barrow.

Brian Conroy is taking over the management of Abbey House Hotel and Gardens, in Barrow, following the sale of another hotel in the group.

The operations director, who has been a director of the hotel company for more than 25 years, is making the move back to Cumbria following the sale of Abbey House’s sister hotel, Red Hall in Bury.

Abbey House Hotel and Gardens general manager John Horton is leaving his position at the Barrow hotel to pursue other interests.

He has been with Abbey House Hotel & Gardens since 2011 and has worked in the hospitality industry in excess of 20 years.

Mr Horton said: “The sale of our sister hotel, Red Hall in Bury, provides the opportunity for further investment in Abbey House Hotel and Gardens.

“Brian Conroy, a previous general manager at Abbey House Hotel, will be taking the reins once more which offers continuity for all of our valued guests, old and new.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working with a fantastic team at Abbey House Hotel and Gardens and am proud of what we have achieved.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those I have worked with and all our wonderful guests and wish them all well for the future.”

The four-star Abbey House Hotel employs around 100 people.