Hotel to close after owners announce retirement

The owners of a hotel which has stood in a town market place since the 18th Century have confirmed plans to close it.

George and Rita Riggs have run the Bell Hotel in Driffield for almost 50 years but said they would close the doors for the final time on 13 February.

The couple said they planned to retire from the hotel trade and would liquidate their business after an unsuccessful three-year search for a new owner.

Mr Riggs said: "It's time that someone else had a go. We've been here a long time. I wouldn't change it for anything, but it's our time to go."

Mrs Riggs added: "Time moves on. We've seen lots of changes and there comes a time when you have to let go. We're going to miss everyone.

"Our customers have become friends over many years. We've seen their children grow up, get married and have their own children. It's been one huge family."

The Grade II listed building features 16 bedrooms and suites as well as an oak panelled restaurant and bar. More recent additions include a gym, swimming pool and health spa.

Customers dining in the restaurant said they were "bitterly disappointed" about the closure.

One said: "There's not many places in Driffield for visitors to come and stay. It's not just the hotel, there's the spa as well and I'll really miss it.

Another added: "It's very disappointing because we've always enjoyed it. We've had Christmas lunch here for the past 20 years. It's like a second home."

Mr and Mrs Riggs said they hoped a new custodian would come forward and continue to run the venue as a hotel.

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