A team of pub experts has been brought in to help save a Shrewsbury hotel which hit financial problems. The Bellstone Hotel, in the town centre, went into administration last month.

It is currently being run by PFK Accountants & Business Advisors.

But the administrators have moved quickly to appoint LT Pub Management to help balance the books until a buyer can be found to take on the historic venue, which has been operating as normal.

The firm has assisted in saving a large number of pubs up and down the country from closure.

All staff at The Bellstone have been retained and the day-to-day running of the hotel will now be the responsibility of the pub management team.

LT Pub Management has gained a strong reputation in the licensing trade.

PKF’s move means that The Bellstone now has the chance to continue trading and to benefit from a range of events taking place in the town this summer.

Billy Buchanan, chief executive of LT Pub Management, said: “Changing drinking habits in the UK – not least the increase in cheap supermarket alcohol – means that we are in danger of losing wonderful pubs and hotels such as The Bellstone.

“Many pubs which are closing these days are the very hub of the community, especially communities such as Shrewsbury, and we are delighted to have been able to provide the means for The Bellstone Hotel to once again play its full part in local life.

“The existing staff know the operation well and, with an excellent food, drinks and entertainment offering, there is no reason why The Bellstone Hotel should not be serving Shrewsbury for many years to come.”