The newly renovated and extended Pastures Hotel has joined Britain's largest group of independently owned and operated hotels, Best Western, after gaining three star status.

Owners Mike and Maxine Chappell have invested more than £2 million in adding 31 extra bedrooms, a conference suite and an a la carte restaurant, Reeds Fine Dining, which saw the hotel secure the higher rating.

Mr Chappell said: "We are really excited about what this means for visitors to the area as well as corporate customers. The extended hotel facilities mean we can now cater for a larger number of wedding guests, as well as meeting the needs of businesses for high quality dining and conference facilities. We recognized the demand in the market for a fine dining experience and we are confident that customers will be impressed by the stunning decor, the service and most of all the food."

The couple celebrated at the official re-opening of the venue where comedian Billy Pearce conducted the ribbon cutting - along with a Laurel and Hardy tribute act who brought him to the hotel in their old Model T Ford.

A mix of traditional and contemporary design has been incorporated into the hotel which has doubled in size as part of the refurbishment. The new Castle Suite conference facility, which overlooks the reception area, can seat up to 60 people in theatre style.

Lisa Pyott has taken the role of head chef at Reeds, bringing extensive experience from her time as head chef in the Royal Air Force while Ian Allgood, formerly of Fahrenheit restaurant in Wath, has been appointed front of house manager.

Mrs Chappell said: "It has taken a lot of hard work and long hours but we are over the moon with how everything has turned out. It's even better than we imagined."