The opening of new luxury lodges at a restaurant in Sabden has taken place, with a couple of VIP guesta on hand to cut the ceremonial ribbon.
Dave Fishwick, the star of Netflix’s The Bank of Dave, attended the grand opening of The Wellsprings Lodges in Sabden, along with Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson.
The lodges are at the site of the owner’s existing eatery The Wellsprings Pub and Restaurant.
Owner Zak Marhraoui has been working on the three lodges, The Peregrine Lodge, The Skylark Lodge and The Little Owl, for years and the plans were submitted to the council in 2021.
Zak said: “Myself and my wife Catherine would like to express our gratitude to everyone who attend Sundays open day, including a huge special thanks to our dear friend David Fishwick, and the support of our local MP Mr Andrew Stephenson.
“Your presence is a testament to the strength of our shared commitment to progress and growth.”
Zak hopes it will bring more tourists to the “hidden gem” Ribble Valley.
He said: “The lodge are a a symbol of hospitality, warmth, and the unique charm of the Ribble Valley.
“These lodges not only represent a place of comfort for travellers but also serve as a vital element in our economic landscape.
“We’re thrilled to announce that through the collaborative efforts of the community and the support of our MP, we are poised to leverage the potential of these lodges to drive our business forward.
“The Ribble Valley has long been a hidden gem, and we believe that the lodges, with their distinctive character and appeal, will play a crucial role in attracting visitors from far and wide.
“As we work to enhance and promote these accommodations, we are confident that they will become beacons of hospitality, putting our region on the map as a must-visit destination.”
“With the support of our local community we aim to create an environment where tourism isn’t just about attracting visitors but about creating lasting connections, forging memories, and leaving a positive impact on the Ribble Valley.
“We are excited about the journey ahead [and hope to ] unlock the full potential of our lodges, drive our businesses to new heights, and increase tourism to the Ribble Valley, ensuring that it thrives as a beacon of beauty, culture and community.”
Andrew Stephenson and Dave cut the ribbon at the official opening.
Dave said: “Sometimes Bank of Dave Advice is just as important as money.
"I helped a lovely family with some business and planning advice on their new project at the Wellsprings Pub and Restaurant.
“I even got in the way of building work at times at the early stages.
“I’m proud to be cutting the ribbon of a fantastic Lancashire business project that was born in Covid times.
“The three new lodges are now finished and ready to rent out to guests, they look amazing. Well done to the Wellsprings!”
The lodges have their own kitchen, shower and bedroom space.
The focal point of the lets are the views as floor to ceiling windows will allow guests to enjoy views of the stunning Ribble Valley countryside.
Speaking to the Lancashire Telegraph when the lodges were first constructed, Zak said his dream is to turn the Wellsprings into the holiday hotspot it used to be, as the restaurant used to have rooms for guests and visitors to stay in.
He said: “It has always been a dream of mine to expand the business like this. Hopefully, in the years to come when they do well The Wellsprings will return to how it used to be.
“There used to be nine rooms upstairs like a hotel.
“It’ll be a fantastic thing for the area. Sabden is the best place to stay in the Ribble Valley. The sunset here is the best ever.”
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