ALMOST 40 staff at a Knutsford pub and a budget hotel face an uncertain future with the planned sale of the businesses.

The Swan at Bucklow Hill and the adjoining Premier Inn are owned by Whitbread, which is to put both businesses up for sale this year.

A total of 39 staff work at the businesses off Mereside Road, 20 at the Premier Inn and 19 at the Swan, which has won a number of awards.

The company will be seeking to find alternative jobs for staff at other Whitbread sites, and customers were thanked for their support.

A Whitbread spokesman said: “We can confirm that The Swan at Knutsford and the adjoining Premier Inn will be put up for sale in the new year.

“Decisions like this are never taken easily, and every effort will be made to find team members alternative roles at our sites in the surrounding areas.

“Our team are already aware of our plans, and we will of course continue to liaise closely with those involved.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the people of Knutsford for their custom over the years.”

The spokesman added that Whitbread bought the site about 15 years ago, and the staff had been informed about the proposed sale of the businesses in November.

The Swan is a Brewers Fayre pub and restaurant, and was Whitbread’s Restaurant of the Year in 2011.

It won the Front of House Team of the Year in 2012 and the Guest Obsession award in 2013.

The Swan’s website said: “According to legend The Swan was the site of a former monastery or priory, and it's thought that there has been an inn standing on the site of The Swan since the 14th century.

“Now you'll find a bustling family friendly pub restaurant, with top notch, classic pub food.

“Our warm and friendly team look after each guest like family, so whether you're visiting Tatton Park or The Trafford Centre, or jetting into Manchester Airport, make sure you stop by.”