Pictured above: (l-r) Kim Beddows with Lodders partner Dale Williams

Stratford-upon-Avon law firm Lodders has completed the "bucket and spade" work to allow a husband and wife to buy a South Coast bed and breakfast hotel.

Mark and Pam Cole have acquired The Bourneville Hotel on the Esplanade in Weymouth, a popular venue for holidaymakers attracted by the resort's golden sands.

Lodders in Stratford-upon-Avon has long been the family solicitor, with Kim Beddows, of the business group department, and Ruth Scott, from the commercial property arm, handling the legal matters surrounding the purchase.

Ms Beddows said: "It is always a thrill to support hard-working people launching new operations.

"Weymouth is a beautiful part of the world and I am sure the sun will shine on Mark and Pam's endeavours. We wish them well."

It was third time lucky for the Coles who recently returned to the UK from the Far East.

Deals for properties in Sussex and Hampshire fell through at the 11th hour.

The Georgian building, which is Grade 2 listed, has 16 bedrooms and the couple started trading in December.

"Once we got over the shock and fear of taking on such an operation we have loved every second of it," said Mr Cole.

"And December trade was better then we thought it would be.

"The building is in good condition and we just have a couple of rooms to refurbish. We are looking to offer a warm and friendly family atmosphere.

"The hotel overlooks Weymouth's glorious beach and is within a minute's walk of the picturesque harbour and bustling town centre. Most rooms are en-suite and ten enjoy panoramic sea views across the bay.

"Weymouth supports many festivals and events which take place along the beach, such as firework displays and an international kite gathering. Other attractions include theatre, shops and nightlife. And, besides holidaymakers, we will be targeting those visiting family and friends and people taking the ferry to Jersey, Guernsey and France.

"We feel it is as a great opportunity and are determined to make a success of the venture."

Mr Cole, aged 32, a Nottingham University graduate, whose background is telecommunications, formerly ran a string of pubs and restaurants in Bangkok in Thailand. He also had a plastics and electrical components business. His wife was previously an air stewardess with Bangkok Airways.

Political instability persuaded them it was time to return home and, given their experience in the hospitality industry, they decided to move into the hotel sector.

Weymouth & Portland are part of the Jurassic Heritage Coast, which is a World Heritage Site.

For more information about Lodders, please visit their website here: www.lodders.co.uk