AN experienced team has taken over the reins at one of Hampshire's most prestigious hotels and is promising to turn it into the area's premier leisure and business destination.

Robert Milton and Victoria Crowe are the new bosses at Lymington's historic Stan-well House Hotel after finding the financial backing to take over the three-star venue.

The move comes after the pair took over the Jane McIntyre Hotels Group, of which Stanwell House is the key asset.

The backing for the buy-out has come from New Forest entrepreneur Tony Jones along with The Royal Bank of Scotland, and the team have been advised by Tenon's corporate finance team based in Southampton.

No exact figure on the purchase price has been given, but it is understood to be several million pounds.

Robert Milton, who is currently in the running for the 2007 Hotelier of the Year title, said: "It is not often that a hotel of this standing becomes available in such an important town. We intend to transform Stanwell House Hotel into Lymington's premier destination for both business and leisure."

Robert and Victoria previously ran Hampshire's famous Rhinefield House Hotel, which they helped turn into a success.

Tenon's David Copley said: "The combination of the duo and their financial backers is a dream team in the hotel industry.

"We have every confidence that Lymington will once more have a significant town centre hotel of which it can be truly proud."

Stanwell House boasts 29 bedrooms and also has a secluded garden cottage.

It is licensed for civil marriages and has an AA Rosette Award for culinary excellence.