The owners of a 16th Century Cotswold Inn are expanding their business thanks to a funding package from one of Britain's biggest banks.

The owners of The Bell Inn in Selsley near Stroud have secured a six-figure package to allow them to acquire and refurbish a cottage opposite the pub.

That will allow the owners, couple Mark Payne and Sarah Watts to grow the accommodation side of their business and employ more staff.

With demand for rooms growing - especially in historic pubs such as The Bell - the couple knew they had to expand.

Co-owner Sarah Watts said: "Having owned The Bell Inn for the past four years, we are thrilled to continue to expand the business with the support of HSBC UK.

"We have seen more visitors coming to the area and an increased demand for short stay accommodation, so being able to offer more accommodation and grow our team is crucial to the success of the Inn.

"Our relationship manager, Joel Dunning, has been incredibly helpful along the way and we are delighted with the funding package put in place."

The 800 square foot cottage will include two bedrooms as well as bathroom facilities and a fully equipped kitchen designed to house both staff and customers.

Located in picturesque Selsley, the Bell features in The Good Food Guide and has two rosettes from the AA and serves real ales and locally-sourced food.

David Butler, HSBC area director for business banking for Bristol, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire said the bank was happy to help a thriving business expand.

"We are delighted to help Mark and Sarah achieve their business ambitions to expand the Inn," he said.

"They are both very committed to developing their offer for their expanding customer base, which has been a key part of their growth strategy.

"It's great to have agreed the funding, which will enable them to hire more people and attract a higher number of guests to The Bell Inn. We wish them every future success."