A FAMILY-OWNED hotel has completed the first stage of a major £400,0000 refurbishment programme.

The first new look rooms and suites at four star Gisborough Hall, which was built in 1857, have been unveiled.

So far 39 of its 71 bedrooms have been refurbished in keeping with the building along with the ballroom, drawing room and inner hall. The remainder of the work will be carried out over the coming months.

The hotel, which also has "Chaloner's", a two AA Rosette restaurant, a Revival Zone spa, "G" Bar and Bistro, and is now a Macdonald Associate hotel.

Jason Moore has also returned as head chef, having travelled and worked around the UK and Europe and who most recently assisted with Yorkshire-based Provenance Inns’ gastro-pub openings across the region.

Kim Yardley, general manager, said: "The new bedrooms and public areas have been extremely well received and the coming year will also see more exciting plans unveiled for the hall. Jason’s return as our head chef has been a fantastic boost as he is so highly regarded.

"We’re very fortunate to have a committed, local team of more than 100 staff and retention is exceptionally high, compared to other hospitality businesses. We’re now looking forward to some interesting development in 2016."

The Grade II-listed country house was fully restored in 2002 following an investment of over £10m by the Gisborough family, who own the hotel itself.

Gisborough Hall is a finalist in the Welcome to Yorkshire White Rose Awards and is a Gold winner in the Green Tourism Business Scheme.