THE OWNERS of Aberaeron’s iconic Harbourmaster hotel have sold the business after 20 years.

Glyn and Menna Heulyn have sold the business to Wells and Louise Jones of the Flatrock Group who own The Cliff Hotel & Spa, The Gwbert Hotel & Flat Rock Bistro, Gwbert Holidays, The Grosvenor and The Angel Hotel.

The new owners have given assurances that the 34 jobs at the Harbourmaster are secure.

Speaking on the sale, Glyn Heulyn said: “We are delighted that the Harbourmaster will remain in the ownership of a local couple, and we wish them, and all of the staff continued success for the future.

“The Harbourmaster has been central to our lives for the last 20 years.

“Little did we think that when we bought the Harbourmaster building in 2001 that we’d share the journey with so many talented individuals who’ve joined us on the way and contributed so much, in every department – as managers, chefs, bar staff, waiters and housekeepers. Many former employees have moved on and set up their own successful businesses.”

Menna added: “Our dream at the beginning was simply to create a welcoming, cool, stylish place to stay, and to eat and drink the best of local produce. As locals who had grown up here, we knew that the location was second to none.

“We hoped it would help put Aberaeron on the map”.