ONE of York’s most renowned and charismatic entrepreneurs has declared himself bankrupt.

David Hattersley, who has previously run a string of city centre hotels, bars and restaurants, said the “unprecedented economic circumstances” had proved too much for his business empire.

He petitioned for bankruptcy at Harrogate County Court, ending his reign as one of York’s most prominent businessmen.

His wife, Sue, was declared bankrupt at the same hearing and their property group, D & SJ Hattersley Properties, was also wound up, following the folding of his de Bretton Hospitality Group earlier this year.

Mr Hattersley’s empire has included Harvilles restaurant in Fossgate, the Guy Fawkes Inn and Lamb and Lion Inn in High Petergate, and Marmadukes Hotel in St Peter’s Grove, Clifton.

At one point, Mr Hattersley, 42, had spent £20 million in York in 18 months – equivalent to £36,000 a day.

He said: “It is a matter of deep personal regret that my business group went under, causing a great deal of pain and anxiety to the people who worked so hard for me, and to my suppliers.

“We tried everything to keep the business afloat but the unprecedented economic circumstances proved too much.”

Mr Hattersley said that, although there was sadness at the bankruptcy, he had “great pride” at what had been achieved previously.

He said all four businesses were thriving, albeit in new hands.

He said: “Everyone who was involved in building them up from scratch can take true satisfaction from the fact that they helped establish real and ongoing assets to York. Most of the 100 jobs created are still there.”

Mr Hattersley, who lives at Nun Monkton, courted controversy in 2008 when he hit out at the presence of beggars on the streets near some of his premises, and accused City of York Council and local police of failing to address the issue.