Friends Reunited founders - Stephen and Julie Pankhurst, are set to embark on a multi-million pound refurbishment of Seckford Hall hotel in Woodbridge, Suffolk after buying the property for an undisclosed sum last year.

The 15th Century, 32-bedroom hotel will undergo a full refurbishment of the ground floor including a new bar in the great hall, new spa facilities and the addition of 24 bedrooms.

Further investment will continue over the next 18 months, which will see the leisure facilities upgraded with additional treatment rooms, a new steam room, sauna and spa area as well as a new restaurant.

The east wing of the hotel, which was previously occupied by the previous owners, is to be incorporated into the hotel with a new event space for 40 additional guests.