The Skelwith Group, the York-based developer, has appointed Nigel Brunt as director of sales and marketing for its 80-acre Raithwaite Hall Country Retreat at Sandsend, in North Yorkshire.

With construction of the luxury 45-bed five-star hotel under way and completion of the £30 million redevelopment on track for the summer of 2011, Mr Brunt will bring to bearmore than 15 years experience within the hotel and catering industry. He was previously director of sales and marketing at York’s Cedar Court Grand Hotel and Spa, following senior positions at Cliveden, The Oxfordshire and Lensbury.

Once finished, Raithwaite Hall will create 160 jobs, enhance the strong and growing tourist economy and use local suppliers wherever possible.

Mr Brunt said: “Raithwaite Hall will become one on Yorkshire’s most talked about retreats, ideal for that romantic break, the perfect wedding, a relaxing spa break, conference or a gastronomic food experience.”