Expansion planned at Torquay coaching inn

Chelston Manor, a coaching inn with rooms in the Torquay village of Chelston, has been sold through Stonesmith of Exeter.

The detached 17th century Grade II-listed property has10 en-suite bedrooms, a locals bar, three inter-linked dining area to seat a total of 120 customers, a games room and a family room.

There is also a two-bedroom managers' flat on the ground floor and a separate owners' house split into two flats, one with a double bedroom and the other with a master bedroom and two singles.

Outside, the business has enclosed trade gardens, a purpose-built barbecue, a separate children's play area and a private owners' garden.

New owners Matt Franklin and his partner Ferne Rogers, plan to expand the letting and functions side (including weddings, christenings, wakes and parties), boost the food element with re-priced menus and a new carvery, and revive its former popularity as a community hub with live events and jazz evenings.

Stonesmith sold the new owners a 30-year Unique Pub Properties lease off an asking price of £235,000.

By Angela Frewin