WOOD Norton Hall, the 4-star country house hotel and conference centre near Evesham has changed hands in a multi-million pound international deal.

Hotel agents Christie and Co has completed the sale on behalf of BBC Resources to American Rick Hvizdak.

Offers in excess of £7,500.000 were asked for the freehold Grade II Listed country house but the sale price has not been disclosed.

Michael Phillips, of Christie and Co said: "Mr Hvizdak sees Wood Norton Hall and conference centre as a first class opportunity and flagship for his planned future hotel and conference investments."

He explained: "The BBC will continue to provide to the hotel and conference centre from its adjoining broadcasting communications training facility, which it will retain. This was also an important factor for the purchaser."