A FORMER Royal residence which has now become a popular venue for events, has expanded its workforce by appointing three new members of staff.

Rudby Hall, an award-winning former royal residence at Skutterskelfe near Stokesley, opened in September 2014.

The venue includes 13 guest suites and hosts weddings, corporate events and other occasions.

Now the owners, husband and wife team Martin and Sandra Johnson, have created three new roles, recruiting Michelle Ffitch as sales manager and Gabrielle Furness and Rosie Mills as duty managers.

Michelle, who is originally from Canada but has been based in Middlesbrough for many years, previously worked at Crathorne Hall.

Gabrielle, from Stokesley, joins Rudby Hall having recently graduated and Rosie, from Carlisle, has worked across Newcastle’s live music scene and managed Middlesbrough’s Michelin-recommended restaurant, Brasserie Hudson Quay.

The Grade II-listed country hall dates back to the 19th century and was a former royal residence built for King William IV’s daughter, Lady Amelia Cary.

Some of Rudby Hall’s first guests included Liam Gallagher and his partner Debbie Gwyther, who were attending a wedding in the area at the time.