The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Funding will help to finish Forces Manor
Aunique hotel complex in the Cairngorms will complete its transformation after securing a six-figure funding deal.
Forces Manor is dedicated to members of the British armed forces, veterans and their families.
Former soldier Tony Brown owns the complex located in Cairngorms National Park.
Extensive refurbishment works will now take place following funding from Reward Finance Group.
Tony joined the Army as a 15-year-old and believes he owes “so much to the armed forces”.
He spent all of his childhood in a children’s home and used the opportunity to avoid homelessness after leaving the care system.
The previous owners of Forces Manor, then known as the Ossian Hotel, allowed Tony to use its postal address so he could provide it to the Army.
At the end of Tony’s military career in 2014, he raised funds to “save” the business from financial struggles.
It operated as a bed and breakfast until it was forced to close due to Covid.
Six years later he came up with a plan to reopen the hotel to provide a “staycation retreat” for those involved in the military – both past and present.
Tony said: “We only opened Forces Manor just seven months ago.
“We quickly recognised that there was massive potential to modernise and expand the facilities for our guests. I owe so much to the armed forces.
“So my vision for the hotel was always to create a luxury retreat that gives something back to those in the military, whether they be veterans or currently serving.”
It is designed to cater for up to 56 guests and specialises in weekend and longer holiday breaks as well as weddings and military adventure training.
The latest improvements, thanks to funding from
Reward Finance Group, include car park improvements and two extensions.
It also includes a renovation of the main hotel area which will enhance its energy efficiency as well as modernising the accommodation areas.
Reward business development director in Scotland, Lucie Martin, believes the deal plays to its core strengths.
She said: “It’s not every day you get to work with a business owner that has been on such a remarkable life journey as Tony has.
“Forces Manor is testament to his vision, perseverance and dedication to giving something back to the armed forces.
“So it’s hugely satisfying to be funding this latest refurbishment project that has transformed the entire complex.
“The deal plays to our core strengths of being able to finance a variety of property purchases and development projects across Scotland.”