A Brentwood hotel has closed its doors for the final time after 55 years of "love, laughter, celebrations, and memories".
De Rougemont Manor, in Great Warley Street, shut for good on Sunday (September 29) and is set to be replaced by a 43-home development.
The hotel - which opened in 1969 as The New World Inn - sits just off the M25 and was an upmarket venue for short stays and private events, such as weddings and conferences.
Associate director Sam Banks said that, although De Rougemont Manor has closed, the memories guests and staff have created over the years "will live on".
In a Facebook post announcing the closure on Sunday, Mr Banks said: "With a heavy heart and immense gratitude, I’m writing to let you know that we’ve closed our doors for the final time.
"It’s hard to believe, but today marks the end of an unforgettable journey for De Rougemont Manor, a place that’s been filled with love, laughter, celebrations, and memories for the past 55 years."
He told staff past and present they were " the true heartbeat" of the hotel.
"Your passion, dedication, and hard work are why our guests have left with smiles, fond memories, and so many reasons to return.
"I’m incredibly proud to have worked alongside each and every one of you. Thank you for everything."
He added: "To you, our guests, thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for trusting us with your most precious moments.
"Whether you visited us just once or became part of the De Rougemont family, your support has meant the world to me, and to all of us here.
"Although we’re closing our doors today, the memories we’ve created together will live on.
"I know I’ll be carrying them with me forever, and I’m sure many of you will too."
De Rougemont Manor was set to close in October 2023, after the redevelopment application was approved in March 2023, but continued trading for another year due to "uncertainty at that time".
Associate director Mr Banks confirmed in July that development works are set to start at the end of this year.
The new residential development will keep "many original features of the hotel", according to Mr Banks, and remain as a listed building.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here