Mystery over future of The White Horse in Romsey

The news comes after The White Horse located in the Market Place has been seized by the National Crime Agency

The hand over follows an investigation into money laundering which has taken place over eight years.

It has been revealed that, Amanda Nuttall, 45, who scooped a £2.5million lottery jackpot in 2008 had used the money to cover up her husband and prominent Romsey businessman, Jonathan Nuttall’s money laundering scheme.

As part of a civil recovery the couple have has to forfeit assets worth £6m including The White Horse.

Now the future of the popular market town hotel is unknown.

A spokesperson from the National Crime Agency said: “The final decision on what will happen is still to be made. What normally happens once the assets are handed over is a receiver is appointed to manage the process on behalf of the Treasury and the assets are then sold at auction.”

Romsey town centre manager Mark Edgerley said: “The White Horse is most important as an employer in the town and it is always a concern when job situations are uncertain, the business offers excellent facilities for business and private users and I do hope those responsible for its future take account of its importance to Romsey and the surrounding area.

“Paul and Sarah Bingham have worked hard to grow the business and are great supporters of many community events and organisations.

Mayor Dorothy Baverstock (pictured below) said: “It is such an asset to the town and I’m worried for Paul and Sarah and all of the other staff members.

“It is one of the few places in the town where people can come and stay.”

As part of the investigation the NCA uncovered that hundreds of millions of pounds had transferred through more than 100 bank accounts held globally including in the UK, Russia, Hong Kong, and Switzerland.

The Daily Echo contacted the hotel but managers did not comment before the paper went to print.