Luxury hotel operator Von Essen has declined to comment on reports that it is in talks with the Mittal family about selling it a stake in the business.

Owner of Von Essen Andrew Davies is reported to be contemplating the sale of a stake in the group in order to form a platform to bid for European properties held by the likes of Orient Express Hotels.

Caterersearch understands Von Essen is also in the frame to buy Herm Island, which is part of the Channel Islands. Reports this morning suggest Von Essen has bid £15m.

The island comprises a 40-room hotel on a harbour-side setting, a country house with grounds that include a tennis court and a swimming pool, the Ship Inn and Restaurant and rental apartments.

Herm Island is part of the Balliwick of Guernsey and shares both its legislature and its beneficial tax regime as it is not part of the UK.

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Von Essen Hotels loses at Appeal Court over Cotswold hotels >>

By Gemma Sharkey

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