Financial advisory and investment banking firm Duff and Phelps yesterday appointed John Whitfield as the administrator for Arizna Star Hotels Limited, owners of the Mill Hotel Lancashire and The Miraj Hotel and Leisure Club in Derbyshire. 

Following the formal announcement of Whitfield’s appointment, it was also announced that Legacy Hotels and Resorts have been appointed as a managing agent to operate the two hotels while conducting a comprehensive review. 

Whitfield said: “We will act to ensure that all staff and customers will be kept fully updated at this difficult time as we assess the situation and work together to ensure the best outcome for the business,” he added.

Despite the announcement that Arizna Star Hotels Limited had gone into administration, a spokesman for the firm confirmed that both hotels were operating as normal.

Andy Townsend, chief executive officer of Legacy Hotels and Resorts, said: “We have vast experience in operating and managing hotels across the UK and have established a reputation of turning round under-performing venues.”

Legacy Hotels and Resorts operates over 30 three-star and four-star properties across the UK and southern Spain.