Hotel proprietor loses divorce cash fight

A London hotel owner who contested a £2.2 million award to his ex-wife has had his appeal unanimously dismissed.

Debra Davies received the lump sum last year after her marriage to Andrew Davies broke down, with a divorce court judge ruling in her favour.

But Mr Davies, who runs the Cardiff Hotel near Paddington Station, appealed claiming that Mrs Davies was “properly entitled” to £1.5 million, describing her as “no more than a receptionist”.

Three Court of Appeal judges – Lord Justice Thorpe, Lord Justice Elias and Lord Justice Rimer – unanimously dismissed the appeal after a hearing in London.

Mrs Davies’ case was based on the fact that the status of the hotel had increased dramatically as a result of her energy, enterprise and marking skills.

“There is no sound basis upon which this court can interfere with the (trial) judge’s order,” said Lord Justice Rimmer.

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