THE Lymm Hotel served its last customers at the weekend before demolition work begins.

This historic hotel, on Whitbarrow Road, closed on Sunday.

A statement on its website, which has now been taken down, said: "We would like to thank all our valued guests for their continued support."

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Lymm Villafont Ltd’s application to demolish Lymm Hotel, on Whitbarrow Road, and build a 66-bed residential care home, 45 retirement apartments and a children’s nursery in its place were approved in December.

More than 180 objections to the application were submitted by residents.

The hotel has a rich history in Lymm, playing host to the Brazil team during the 1966 World Cup and acting as the starting point for village celebrations such as Dickensian Day.

Warrington Guardian: Pele at the Lymm Hotel

Pele at the hotel

It has also hosted countless weddings and family celebrations.

At the time of the approval, Lymm’s Liberal Democrat councillors Anna Fradgley and Ian Marks said they were devastated with the decision.

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In a joint statement, they added: "We are saddened and very angry that the concerns of over 180 residents have been ignored and the decision has been made by people who don't even live in Lymm, so cannot have direct experience of our worries.

"We think Warrington Borough Council has let us down.

"We want to apologise to future generations of Lymm for demolishing their history.

"The Lymm Hotel may not be an architectural gem but it has a distinct charm and character.

"It has a heritage with links to the old railway and to famous people who have been associated with it.

"The site will be over-developed and the surrounding area will not be able to cope.

"There are major highway safety issues on the nearby roads and parking will be a big problem."