A MAJOR auctioneering firm has launched the final element of its extensive £9 million development which has been ongoing for the last three years.

The Cloisters at the Garden Rooms of Tenants of Leyburn has been officially opened in a ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by Richmond MP Rishi Sunak. The opening of the Cloisters marks the final chapter in the development of the Garden Rooms which have been designed to provide a private and intimate venue which takes its inspiration from the original architectural principles used to build cloisters for monastic orders.

Chairman Rodney Tennant said: “When we were considering the purpose and function of the Cloisters, we were keen to create a place of peace and tranquillity.

“It provides a real alternative to our other spaces, which we hope will be appreciated by those seeking a more informal venue."

Mr Sunak performed the opening ceremony before the assembled guests who included the Lord Lieutenant of North Yorkshire Barry Dodd, close family and employees of Tennants. He said: “It is an amazing place and an important community resource which I am sure is appreciated by local people and visitors alike."