A FIRST-time hotel owner who has taken the plunge and acquired Plas Maenan Country House is to feature in new Channel 4 series.

Jane Harris, director of Jagel Enterprises Ltd, bought the luxury Edwardian hotel, located in the Conwy Valley near Llanrwst, from leisure property specialists Fleurets late last year.

As a newcomer to the industry, Jane's journey to becoming a hotelier is being filmed for programme Escape to the Manor Hotel.

The series, to air later this year, will follow hoteliers and Googlebox stars Steph and Dom Parker, as they meet brave families who have taken the plunge as they plan to open, or already run, their own historic hotels in some of Britain’s most beautiful locations.

The programme will be broadcast for an hour a day for the duration of a month and has already begun filming.

Jane said: "I am delighted to have acquired Plas Maenan Country House, I think it was the property that chose me.

North Wales Pioneer:

This elegant Edwardian House was built at the turn of the century some 300 feet above the river.

First-time hotelier Jane outside her hotel. Picture: Kerry Roberts

"It had a magnetic draw that you can’t see or hear but feel.

"I must express my sincere thanks to Lesley at Fleurets, without her none of this would have been possible."

Refurbishment work has been undertaken at the hotel. This has included restoring the parquet flooring back to its original condition and stripping the old office space to create a new welcoming area for staff and clients.

"It is such an exciting time," Jane added.

"We have also commissioned an extension to the front of the property, which will serve as a gin, fizz and cocktail bar set to launch in spring 2019. I have also been busy sourcing local suppliers, farms and bakeries for our food and afternoon tea offer; all of which is being documented for Channel 4.

North Wales Pioneer:

Inside the property. Renovation work has been carried out. Picture: Kerry Roberts

"In the first four months of trading we plan to create more than eight jobs and also increase the bedroom count from seven to twelve as well as offer weddings by September.”

Plas Maenan Country House re-opened in February. A grand launch charity event is planned for summer with the proceeds going to the RNLI.

Lesley Watmough, of Fleurets who brokered the transaction which saw Jane acquire the hotel, said: "I am delighted to have introduced Jane to this opportunity.

"This was an off market confidential deal that was never put on the open market. The hotel has wonderful views as well as superb grounds and I was aware Jane was looking for a stunning location where she could develop a business.”

The production company, who also make A Place in the Sun and Coast V Country, are also seeking additional hoteliers to participate in the Channel 4 series. For further information, contact: casting@manorhotel.tv