Daniel Thwaites, the Blackburn-based pub and hotel operator, has confirmed that it is considering offloading the Stafford Hotel in central London after receiving offers for the property.

The company has owned the hotel, which is operated by its Shire Hotels subsidiary, since 1995. However, Shire Hotels' managing director Antony Spencer has now revealed that Savills has been dealing with a number of prospective buyers. Spencer said: "We have received a number of approaches from interested parties over the years and have given each of them consideration. Savills have handled these on our behalf in the past and will continue to do so.

"There have been a number of recent expressions of interest, but no sale has been agreed." According to The Times newspaper, Thwaites is reported to be in discussions with Egyptian construction and tourism company, RAWM Group, over the possibility of a £75m deal for the Stafford Hotel.