Clergyman buys Ho Sanderson's luxurious Eshott Hall

Jan 21 2010 by David Black, The Journal

THE opulent family home of a prominent North East businessman has been bought by a clergyman-turned-entrepreneur who acquired a neighbouring country estate in Northumberland two years ago.

The sale of centuries-old Eshott Hall near Felton – previously owned by landowner, farmer and property developer Ho Sanderson and his wife Margaret – has been successfully completed for more than the £3m guide price.

The imposing mansion - which is run as a luxury boutique hotel and a venue for weddings, conferences and private parties – was put on the market in September by insolvency experts Grant Thornton, who are handling the administration of Mr Sanderson’s portfolio of companies.

Now it has emerged that it has been bought by Shropshire-based businessman Robert Parker, who lives with his wife Gina on their 800-acre Tedsmore agricultural estate at Oswestry near Shrewsbury. Mr Parker is no stranger to Northumberland, having acquired the 700-acre Guyzance Estate near Acklington, including the Grade II-listed Guyzance Hall, for £7m in 2007.

Guyzance – which is just a few miles from Eshott – is now used as the wealthy couple’s second home, and is also run as a luxury holiday let and wedding venue, providing accommodation for up to 24 guests.

There are four holiday cottages in the extensive grounds.

Mr Parker, 66, is an ordained clergyman who started a new career in 1986 in the care home business.