THE Hydro Hotel at Eastbourne has been awarded four stars by the AA for the first time in its 120-year history.

The AA cited the improvements made in the past seven months with the bedrooms, restaurant, ballroom, lounges and the service of note.

The property scored particularly high with hospitality, public areas, gardens and grounds, food and cleanliness.

General manager Jonathan Owen said: “We are delighted to have been awarded four stars from the AA.

“Over the past few months we have invested over £400,000 in refurbishing all areas of the hotel and improving our food offering and customer service.

“We have also carefully renovated our grounds with subtle floral improvements to maximise the setting and elevated sea view, relined the outdoor swimming and added new sun loungers.

“It is full credit to all my colleagues to achieve four stars and we will be celebrating as a team to acknowledge all the hard work everyone has put in.”

The Hydro is investing in further improvements with a highlight being the addition of an outdoor wedding facility, named the Coastal Terrace, opening in early August.

The hotel has secured an outdoor wedding ceremony license and will enable couples to take their vows overlooking the sea.

A custom-made dome with open sides has been created with guests seated alfresco to ensure a memorable setting.