THE company who have taken over the running of Highcliffe Castle tearooms say they will 'respect, nurture and preserve' the beauty of the area.

Aramark UK have now been officially confirmed as the company to take on the tender for the popular tearoom at Highcliffe Castle.

It comes after criticism by the former tearoom owner, residents and ward councillors over the decision.

A spokesperson for the company, who also run the catering at Bletchley Park, said: "Aramark UK has been operating at a local level since 1972, where we have a commitment to excellence in food and catering facilities and have a passion for local tradition and culture.

"Aramark UK aims to bring its passion for food and wealth of experience in catering to the Highcliffe Castle Tearooms, while respecting, nurturing and preserving the refined beauty of the area."

Their senior operating manager added: “We are delighted to be given the opportunity to operate at such a beautiful site whilst continuing to support local residents and businesses.

"We look forward to providing excellent customer service and high quality local produce to the local community and visitors.”

The issue was discussed at Christchurch council's scrutiny and policy overview committee on Wednesday.

Committee chairman Colin Jamieson said he called in the item to discuss the decision, but had been told the deadline had passed.

Members did talk about the process in general though.

Cllr Jamieson said: "What we did not realise was the nature of the contract that would be let.

"And so there did not appear to be anything wrong in the process and we can't then turn round and say 'we do not want that contract'.

He added: "There were lots of questions over what we could do to improve the decision making process, as opposed to the decision itself."