Former footballer passes hotel to family

A Sheffield-based law firm has supported the handover of a long-standing hospitality business as it moves into a new chapter under family ownership.

Solicitors from MD Law advised former professional footballer Kevin Gage as he retired from running The Manor House Hotel in Dronfield, passing the business to his stepdaughter Isobel Ford and her partner Elliott Hill. 

The couple will now take over management of the 15th century Grade II-listed hotel, café and bar, which has become a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Kevin, who enjoyed a 19-year football career playing for Sheffield United, Aston Villa, Wimbledon and others, first took ownership of the venue in 2008. 

The property’s mix of character features and contemporary style has made it a mainstay on Dronfield High Street.

Kevin said: “I am delighted that we have been able to keep The Manor House Hotel in the family and genuinely had no idea that this was possible. 

“Thanks to excellent advice from MD Law, Mitchells and Optimum Finance, the legacy I have worked to build is now safely in the hands of my stepdaughter and her partner. 

“I am 100 per cent confident they will continue to build on excellent foundations and take The Manor House forward into its next phase.”

Isobel added: “It is a really exciting time to take on The Manor House Hotel and we are all working very hard to get the new offerings out there to people and make sure they are the best they can be. 

“Hard work is going into all our new offerings including Sunday lunch, afternoon tea and bottomless brunch and the team is genuinely excited to add another success to The Manor House Hotel’s story. 

“You can genuinely feel the buzz around the place, which can only get better once our refurbishment works are complete in the new year.”

MD Law’s James Burdekin and Travis Wood handled the corporate and commercial property work for the transaction, while Paul Naylor at Optimum Finance and Mitchells Accountants provided financial and accounting support.

Travis said: “It is always great to work on family businesses and help those hardworking families achieve their aims and goals, especially when the business is such a staple to a local community. 

“I’m sure I speak for all at MD Law when I say best wishes and good luck!”

Paul added: “It's been a pleasure to work with The Manor House Hotel once again. 

“I assisted with the initial purchase back in 2008 and have been proud to support the business ever since. 

“It's been great to help guide the company into its next chapter. 

“I’d like to take this opportunity to wish Kevin a very happy retirement, and to wish Isobel and Elliott every success as they continue to grow this fantastic business.”

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