A historic hotel that opened almost 30 years ago has closed down with ‘immediate effect'. 

The closure of Rosehill House Hotel in Burnley has shocked residents and businesses in the community after it was announced on Facebook last night (December 12).

Rosehill House was built in 1846 for wealthy cotton mill owner, Adam Dugdale, before it was later occupied by the Home Guard during the Second World War.

The building was then converted into a hotel in 1963 and was refurbished and opened 27 years ago, and featured on the channel five show The Hotel Inspector.

Owners Emma Pennington and her dad John Doherty shared their sadness on Facebook, saying: ”It is with a broken heart and tears falling, that we have to announce the closure of our beloved Rosehill House.

“The last 27 years has been an incredible journey of experiences, friendships, highs and lows and every emotion you could possibly imagine. 

“I will cherish the many wonderful memories we created with the best team of people any business could hope to have, to the suppliers and many loyal fantastic customers who have become friends and made the last 27 years possible.

“With so many factors beyond our control, we are devastated to say we are no longer able to continue operating and have closed the business with immediate effect.  

“If you have any kind of reservation with us, we will be in touch over the next few weeks to refund your deposits, please do bear with us whilst we undertake this arduous task .

“Thank you so much for reading. It has been an absolute pleasure and memories that we will hold dear forever. Emma and John.”

Michael Huckerby, director of Lawrence Hotel and Restaurant in Church Street, Padiham, said he is “incredibly saddened” by the news and has offered his support as the hotel closes.

He wrote: “Emma and her team have worked so hard.

"Times are tough for everyone including small businesses and reminds us that if we want our beloved local businesses to stay around we must use them.

“Our thoughts also go out to the couples who will obviously will be worried about their dates. If you need any help with a venue please let us know.

"We have spoke to Rosehill and told them we will match like for like their quotes.

“Lastly this is such a hard time to be out of work and unfortunately we are fully staffed but anyone wishing to send their CV over to us we will pass to our network of local hotels we work with.

“Local businesses are the heartbeat of the beautiful Burnley community and Rosehill House will be missed.”