An iconic Huntingdon hotel is on sale for £8 million as its owners have decided to "step aside" after nearly four decades working there.

John and Julia Hoskins have decided to sell The Old Bridge Hotel and Wine Shop because "we want to leave while it is on a high, and while we still have the energy for everything else we want to do in the rest of our lives".

In a statement posted to the hotel's Facebook page, Mr Hoskins, who has ran the establishment for 28 years, said: that last year was the hotel's "most successful ever" and, "despite the economic doom and gloom in the news, we have started 2023 ahead of 2022".

He however added that, having turned 60 last December, and having been coming to The Old Bridge to work for close to 40 years, "now is the time for us to step aside and let someone else be the custodian of this beautiful and special place.

READ MORE: Read the fascinating history of The Old Bridge Hotel

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"I believe that, in that time, Julia and I have looked after the hotel to the best of our ability and we are both very pleased with how it now looks and feels.

"It is something of an institution in the area and I know it is an important part of the lives of many people."

The 18th century 24-bedroom townhouse, which is located in the town's High Street, is now on the market with London estate agent Knight Frank. 

"If we get the right bid, we will ask for completion within a further three months."

However, Mr Hoskins said that "if none of that happens, we will withdraw the sale and you will be stuck with us for several more years.

"We don’t need to sell, but we want to, so we have to find a buyer who really fits. 

He concluded the post by asking visitors to "please continue to support us over the next six months while we still have the business.

"And please also continue to support it after that point.

"Whoever takes it on, they will only be buying The Old Bridge if they intend to safeguard that which makes it successful (most obviously our wonderful staff) and to build on that success in the future."

One former member of staff who started working at the hotel in 1975 said on social media: "I have so many happy memories.

"It has always been very successful and whoever takes it over will have some huge boots to fill."