Concerning the reviewer’s observations:

1) The building is a100 year old Edwardian building converted into a hotel and so it is 'old fashioned'. We have retained much of its original Edwardian character and did not indulge in architectural vandalism during the building’s conversion into a full hotel.

2) With regards to other comments, I would ask reviewers to look at past reviews e.g see previous review, “Astonishingly friendly Hotel”.and also note that we are still ranked number 1 of 7 hotels in the area.

3) Considering the location, this reviewer chose to stay in this hotel and so the fact that the location did not suit the reviewer is entirely due to the reviewrs own 'location' choice. I presume the reviewer initially checked our location.

4) Finally, the hotel finds some of the comments about certain staff 'offensive'.

I will address each of the issues in turn.

1) Breakfast: The reference to salmonella was put on the Breakfast Menu on the recommendation of the local Food Hygiene Inspector who remarked that many people are concerned about eggs ‘provenance’ in much the same way that they often ask if the eggs are ‘free range’, ‘organic’, etc. The vast majority of residents compliment us on the breakfast – see earlier reviews. ‘Breakfast is very nice too with plenty of choice’.

2) Nescafe granules. This is on the menu as result of people asking what instant coffee we use.

3) The architecture (Edwardian) and layout of the hotel bedrooms is such that you can’t hear noise from 3 directions. And ss per the 3 star criteria, the rooms are more than merely 'functional'.

4) Smoking - Contractors. The Smoking shelter/area/location is as approved by the local authority. Like many establishments, it is in the vicinity of the main entrance. As to contractors, I do not practise smoking apartheid and they are welcome to smoke in the same area as non-contractors

5) Décor. Each to his own taste but I would encourage readers again to look at past reviews e.g. ‘I loved all of the artefacts from their travels abroad as they gave a fun, quirky feel to the hotel and were an excellent talking point’.

6) ‘Signs telling you not what to do’. All relate to smoking, as required by law and/or the disposal of ‘tab’ ends. Sorry, there is one other sign to do with dirty footwear which is a problem with some, not all 'contractors' (dirty/muddy etc workboots).

Negative remarks always concern me but this particular review appears to be 'out of sync' with those of other recent guests.