Shetland's newest hotel, The Moorfield Hotel, opens its doors for the first time today (6 August 2013).

The 100-bedroom property, located in the village of Brae, has been completed in just under a year and will create 43 jobs in the local area.

The property, which is owned by BDL Shetland, will be used primarily to accommodate workers at TOTAL's new gas plant at Sullom Voe. An occupancy level of 100% will be guaranteed for the first year of operation, with a minimum of 80% occupancy in future years. Redefine BDL Hotels have a 10 year contract to operate the hotel.

Stuart McCaffer, Chairman of BDL Shetland, said: "We are thrilled to be opening the doors of The Moorfield Hotel for the very first time. It is an exciting development for Brae and for Shetland. We are delighted to have completed such an ambitious project ahead of schedule with the help of TOTAL E&P UK and our builders, McAleer & Rushe.

"With the Shetland isles currently experiencing a boom, due to the discovery of new oil and gas fields, our link-up with TOTAL will secure the hotel's future for the long-term. And, with strong links to the village of Brae and the wider Shetland Islands, we envisage the hotel becoming a key part of the local community."

The construction of The Moorfield Hotel was made possible through a �6.5m funding package from Royal Bank of Scotland Corporate and Institutional Banking (RBS CIB).

Lesley Stark, director - client coverage, Glasgow, RBS CIB, said: "It's wonderful to see this much needed property come to life in such a stunning location. The hotel is a great example of the sort of project that RBS is delighted to be involved in. We look forward to further strengthening our long-standing relationship with RBH in the future."

As well as the job created in the local area, the hotel will source 95% of its supplies from local businesses, with its facilities open to members of the public.

Ailsa Sangster, general manager of the hotel, said: "Although TOTAL will be our main customers the facilities are open to local residents, including our restaurant, bar and fitness suite. We have placed ourselves firmly at the heart of the community here in Shetland and we look forward to welcoming local resident through our doors in the near future."

For further information, contact:

Lucy Smith or Craig MacLellan

0131 470 3400

lucy.smith@porternovelli.co.uk or craig.maclellan@porternovelli.co.uk