Eshott Hall wedding plans thrown into doubt

Jul 30 2009 by David Black, The Journal

WEDDING plans for several couples have been thrown into disarray after the luxury Northumberland country hotel where they were due to get married was placed into administration.

Seven couples who have booked to tie the knot in civil ceremonies at 17th-century Eshott Hall, near Felton, next year are being advised to find a different venue because of doubts over the future of the business.

Their plans have been completely disrupted after Eshott Hall owner, Ho Sanderson, decided earlier this week to place his businesses in administration.

Newcastle accountants Grant Thornton are now acting as administrators for Eshott Hall Estate Ltd, Hartford Hall Estate Ltd and Hartfound Ltd, which are owned by Mr Sanderson, 59, and his wife Margaret.

Yesterday, administrator Joe McLean said eight weddings scheduled to be held at Eshott Hall between now and the end of 2009 would go ahead as planned and be “completely unaffected” by the administration move.

However, the same guarantee could not be given for the seven marriage ceremonies booked for 2010.

Mr McLean said: “The first wedding in 2010 is scheduled for May, so we are giving everyone affected between 10 and 16 months' notice. We have contacted all of the families concerned and suggested that they should make alternative arrangements.