Hotelier brothers create 40 jobs with new Holmes Chapel venue

Hotel operator Flat Cap Hotels has created 40 new jobs with its first foray in Cheshire after acquiring and revamping a centuries-old inn near Holmes Chapel.

The firm snapped up the Vicarage Freehouse and Rooms in Cranage, a Grade II-listed building dating back to the 17th Century, with financial support from the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS).

Flat Cap Hotels carried out a full refurbishment project on the entire 20-bedroom property, creating a pub and new restaurant space, as well as a games room, conservatory and library.

Entrepreneurial brothers Oliver and Dominic Heywood, the third generation in a line of hoteliers, are now in charge of The Vicarage.

Oliver, a director at Flat Cap Hotels, commented: “After being born in a hotel it comes as no surprise that hospitality runs through our veins.

“We couldn’t be more pleased with the design and feel we have achieved at The Vicarage, with further plans to develop six large suites and the out buildings into a spa and leisure club with potentially more conference facilities in 2016.”

He added: “We look forward to working alongside Royal Bank of Scotland to support our exciting plans in the pipeline to help us achieve strategic growth expansion.”

The pair are looking to acquire a further two hotels in 2015, as part of a strategy to run five under the Flat Cap banner by 2018.

RBS business relationship manager Michele Fynan commented: “We have been overwhelmed by the passion and experience both Oliver and Dominic possess.

“We are in no doubt they will expand a trusted and loyal brand across the North of England, leveraging their knowledge of the local area and the hospitality industry, which they have been exposed to all of their lives.”