A HAMPSHIRE hotel is back in business just over a year since it was struck by a bolt of lightning.

The 124-room Holiday Inn at Titchfield was struck by a violent electrical storm. Its timber roof frame burst into flames and in the drama 30 guests, mainy in swim gear, had to flee.

In the inferno the bar, reception and function rooms were destroyed. However, from the ashes has risen new facilities created by £1.5m major makeover.

Yesterday it was all smiles as leading members of the community joined hotel staff to celebrate the grand re-opening.

Leading the celebrations was 37-year-old Laura Roberts, the four star hotel's general manager, who said: "The fire was heartbreaking to watch. We are a little family here and witnessing the fire was like seeing our homes burn.

"It was very emotional but everybody has such wonderful pride in the new facilities. We are all so excited about the new place."