Music legend, Sir Cliff Richard, has been spotted in Lancashire after he stayed the night at an award-winning inn near Preston.

The ‘summer holiday’ singer spent two nights at The Cartford Inn in Little Eccleston before performing at his Blackpool gig.

Staff at the inn, which was recently named The Sunday Times ‘best foodie hotel’, were “delighted” to have him stay.

They posted a picture to their Facebook page, along with the caption: “Sir Cliff loved the Inn”

Owners of the inn, Julie and Jeanie Beaume, can be seen smiling in the photo next to 81-year-old Sir Cliff Richard.

Jeanie Beaume spoke to the Lancashire Telegraph and described Cliff as a “true gentleman”.

She added: "He thoroughly enjoyed his stay at the Inn. He really enjoyed his meal with us and mentioned that our staff were a credit to us.”

Cliff was in Lancashire to perform at Blackpool Winter Gardens on Sunday.

This was one stop on his ‘The Great 80 tour’, which had to be postponed last year due to the pandemic.

Ms Beaume also added that he had many stories to tell about his gigs in the county.

She said: “He had many stories to tell us about Blackpool after having visited here for gigs, shows and what not – he was thrilled to be back.

“He said the last time he was here he played at the ABC Theatre (now known as The Syndicate) in Blackpool.

“The first night he enjoyed the inn and the food and the second night he did his gig.”

Former guests and fans were excited about Sir Richard’s stay at the inn.

One person wrote:  “Legend - how fabulous for you.”

Another said: “Wow great picture, Julie.”

Grace added: “Gracious! You are honoured - but on second thoughts, so is Cliff!”

Find out more about The Cartford Inn by visiting their website.