A Sunderland hotel has rolled out the red carpet and welcomed business leaders and civic dignitaries to a 10th anniversary celebration.

The Hilton Garden Inn, located in Vaux Brewery Way, has now been welcoming guests for a decade.

Among those who attended the milestone celebration was the Mayor of the City of Sunderland, Ehthesham Haque, and the Mayoress, Lynda Scanlan, who joined other VIPs for a special drinks reception.

Attendees were also given a first look at the hotel’s newly refurbished lobby, bar and public seating areas, now enhanced with vibrant furnishings and striking artwork.

General manager Gareth Freeman with the mayor and mayoress, and director of sales Catherine Graham.

placeholder image — General manager Gareth Freeman with the mayor and mayoress, and director of sales Catherine Graham.

A refurbishment of the hotel’s 141 bedrooms is set to follow as part of an ongoing programme to refresh and elevate the guest experience.

The hotel’s popular Karbon Grill has also undergone a full transformation, with new seating and carpets creating a more contemporary and welcoming atmosphere.

Since opening, Hilton Garden Inn has become a firm favourite thanks in part to its prime location next to the Stadium of Light.