The Hotel Penrallt at Aberporth has gone into administration after a "prolonged period of difficult trading conditions".

Four staff have been made redundant as Manchester-based administrators Baker Tilly have stepped in to run the business.

The three star hotel - which used to be family-run - is now owned by Underfield Hotels Ltd.

The Edwardian hotel has been a feature of village life for decades, hosting events such as the biannual church fete and annual community council dinner.

Local county councillor Gethin James said he was saddened by the news.

"It would be devastating if the hotel was to close," he said.

"It is a magnificent building and in a truly lovely setting. I would hope someone will see it as an investment and step in to buy it."

The hotel consists of 26 en suite bedrooms (15 situated within the main hotel building and 11 are Garden Rooms situated within the grounds). The leisure facilities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, sauna and gymnasium. The 50 acre site also includes 18 self-contained holiday cottages. The cottages are also being offered for sale along with the hotel and leisure facilities.

A statement from Baker Tilly says: "At the date of Administration, the hotel employed 22 members of staff. Four members of staff were made redundant following the Administrators’ appointment, and the remaining 18 members of staff are still employed whilst the hotel continues to trade to allow the Administrators time to seek a buyer for the hotel and leisure facilities.

Any party wishing to express an interest in acquiring the hotel, cottages and leisure facilitates should contact Ian Ainsworth at Baker Tilly’s Manchester office as soon as possible on 0161 830 4006."