A hotel which has been a go-to place for family functions and celebrations in Wilmslow over many decades has gone into administration.

Residents have spoken of their shock at the news administrators have moved into the four-star Stanneylands Hotel. The country house hotel on Stanneylands Road has been popular for functions, weddings and conferences over the years.

But now its future looks uncertain after administrators from business-advisory firm AlixPartners took control. They are looking for a buyer for the business.

Catherine Mackenzie, chairman of Wilmslow Business Group which has held meetings at the hotel, said: “Stanneylands Hotel is a great supporter of the Wilmslow Business Group. We were shocked by the news and our thoughts go out to the team at this uncertain time.

“The hotel is in a great location and offers great service, so I’m sure it will be bought out of administration and go from strength to strength.”

Christopher Dodson, Wilmslow Town councillor and a Wilmslow Trust member, said he is sad about the news.

He said: “It’s an impressive hotel and something good to have in Wilmslow. It’s been a hotel for as long as I’ve been here for 40 years and I think as a trust we would want to see it continue.”

Khumi Burton, who has celebrated family events and functions for the Combat Stress charity at the hotel, said she is shocked and ‘devastated’.

Khumi said: “I’ve always enjoyed my visits to Stanneylands, like many other people from around Wilmslow. There must have been thousands of families who have had functions over the years.

“The staff and service are fantastic. I hope it can continue as it is.”

Ryan Grant, Lee Causer and Catherine Williamson from AlixPartners were appointed joint administrators for Stanneylands and three other hotels owned by Prima Hotels - Nunsmere Hall Hotel in Cheshire, The Quorn Country Hotel in Leicestershire and Hellaby Hall Hotel in Rotherham.

The administrators will continue to trade the hotel and promise to honour existing bookings. The hotels will be operated by Legacy Hotels and Resorts Limited.

Ryan Grant, of AlixPartners, said: “We believe the businesses are attractive to potential buyers and welcome expressions of interest to acquire any or all of the sites.”