CHALLENGING economic conditions facing the hospitality industry have been blamed for the closure of The Courthouse.

The hotel and restaurant in Knutsford’s iconic former crown court building ceased trading on Monday.

Administrators from Begbies Traynor have been appointed to Flat Cap Hotels Ltd.

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Brothers Oliver and Dominic Heywood founded the company in 2015 to ‘safeguard and cherish’ Grade II listed venues in Cheshire.

A spokesperson for the administrators said: “We can confirm that Flat Cap Hotels Limited, which operates the Bridge in Prestbury, The Vicarage in Cranage and The Courthouse in Knutsford, has entered administration.

“Like many others in the hospitality sector, despite having an excellent reputation and a strong brand, the business has been impacted by a combination of factors, including the pandemic, inflation and the challenging economic environment for consumers.

“Partners at Begbies Traynor have been appointed as joint administrators and the focus is now on stabilising the operating position of the business and exploring future options.

“The Bridge and the Vicarage will continue to trade as normal, while The Courthouse has ceased trading.”