Top Malton hotel fined after guest plunges down cellar steps

The unnamed woman had been attending a function at the Old Lodge Hotel in Malton when she leaned on a door in front of the steps.

She was injured as she plunged down the steep, curved and inadequately maintained staircase, Leeds Magistrates’ Court heard. An investigation by Ryedale District Council concluded that the owners, Warmest Welcome Ltd, had failed to ensure that the cellar doors were adequately secured or to produce an adequate risk assessment, and failed to take “reasonably practicable steps” to prevent members of the public gaining access to the cellar.

The company also failed to maintain the cellar stairs in good condition.

It admitted two health and safety breaches and was fined £13,000 with £9,000 costs and a victim surcharge of £120.

Linda Cowling, Leader of Ryedale District Council, said: “Given the serious nature of this case, it was important that the prosecution took place. The Council will take a firm stand against anyone failing in their duties in relation to health and safety.”

The Old Lodge, which has a TripAdvisor rating of 4½ out of five, is a Tudor mansion built in 1604, on the edge of Malton.

On its website it boasts that is “perfect for your wedding, party, christening, special celebration or corporate event”.