After more than 45 years in the hospitality industry the owners of the popular Bull Hotel in Burford have sold the business in order to begin their retirement.

Jean-Marie Lauzier and his wife Clare chose to sell the 18-letting room hotel, pub and restaurant having turned it round from a non-trading property in need of considerable work, into a successful business, after deciding it was time to retire.

The Grade II* listed building, situated in the high street of the popular Cotswolds town, was bought freehold by a private investor through Colliers International for a guide price of £1.25million.

Jean Marie and Clare bought the property in 2009 and after extensive refurbishment reopened it as a hotel, with a public food and beverage offer in June 2010.

Since then the couple added more letting rooms across the ground and upper two floors of the building, many of which have huge original stone fireplaces as key features.

Peter Brunt, director of hotels agency at Colliers said: “The towns around the Cotswolds, such as Burford, are always hugely popular with those looking to invest in the hospitality business. Sites like the Bull Hotel always get lots of interest and enquiries.

“I know this has been a difficult decision for Jean-Marie and Clare to make and a worrying time to undertake a sale, but it’s been a real pleasure to be able to see them into a well-deserved retirement.”

Jean-Marie added: “Unfortunately ill health has forced me to retire from the hospitality business, but over the last 45 years, I have bought and sold many properties and quite a few through Colliers.

"It has never been so difficult as now, but Peter has been so professional, patient and understanding as he’s guided us through this sale.”