One of Bournemouth’s top hotels is celebrating a quarter of a century under the ownership of the Blakemore family.

Hotel Miramar on Bournemouth’s East Cliff was purchased by Midlands’ businessman Bob Blakemore in February 1997.

The acquisition followed regular holiday visits to the resort by Bob and his wife, May.

Following the purchase, the couple set about making improvements to the Edwardian clifftop villa.

It was known to have been frequented by J.R.R Tolkien, author of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.

Bob passed away in 2001 when daughter Clare and son Chris joined their mother in overseeing the business.

Clare took over the reins as Managing Director almost a decade ago.

Commenting on the anniversary, Clare said: “It is with mixed emotions that we reach this 25-year milestone.

“We have constantly re-invested into Hotel Miramar to achieve our 4-star status and refurbish and upgrade all areas.

“We enjoy a reputation as the country house hotel by the sea, with an elegant, stylish and welcoming offer for our guests.

“I know undoubtedly that my father would be so proud of what we have achieved today, continuing his legacy for high quality and first-class customer care.

“He was particularly enthusiastic about those elements in hospitality and would have enjoyed sharing our success.”

The 43-bedroom hotel has become one of Bournemouth’s top wedding venues, known for its gardens overlooking Poole Bay.

Clare said: “Running a successful business is about so much more than investment in bricks and mortar and the fabric of the hotel.

“It is about having a wonderful team of dedicated and hardworking people who share our vision, take pride in what they do, and pay attention to all the tiny details.

“We are thankful that Team Miramar demonstrate all these attributes and genuinely care.

“This is much appreciated by us as proprietors, but, more importantly, by our visitors and guests.”

Hotel Miramar has a busy summer season forecast with room bookings looking positive as well as a busy wedding season hosting re-scheduled celebrations.

Reservations for Christmas 2022 stand at around 50 per cent prebooked.

Being open to non-residents, the Miramar always remains a popular destination for dining, including its award-winning afternoon teas and Sunday lunches.

Theo Iakimov, Hotel Miramar’s General Manager, said: “As a privately owned and managed business we can continue to offer something unique for our guests.

“Having the proprietors committed to ongoing investment means we should still be a thriving hotel for many years to come.”

• miramar-bournemouth.com