TRIBUTES have been paid to a “much-loved” hotelier who, along with her husband, brought a Michelin star to Ceredigion.

Joan Reen, who, alongside her husband Rob, transformed Ynyshir Hall, near Eglwysfach into one of the country’s finest country house hotels, died on Friday, 12 February after losing a brave battle with cancer aged just 67.

Joan, a former geography teacher, took ownership of Ynyshir Hall in 1989.

Under her and Rob’s leadership, the hotel became a foodie destination - having a Michelin star over 13 years and welcoming famous guests including Richard Gere, Julia Ormond and Eddie Izzard.

Last year, it became the only place in Wales to be awarded four AA Rosettes, after having held three for 20 years.

Ynyshir Hall has appeared in The Good Food Guide for the last 26 years.

A former childhood retreat of Queen Victoria, it was also awarded AA Hotel of the Year, Wales, in 2014.

Peter da Silva, the PR spokesman for the hotel, said that Joan was a “truly remarkable woman”.

“Together with Rob, she won back her hotel following the collapse of von Essen hotels group.

“Unfailingly modest, there is no doubt about Joan’s charisma. There will be no one like Joan again in this industry.

“Her beloved hotel is a testament to her creativity and passion. May she rest in peace.”

Chef Gareth Johns, of the Wynnstay Arms in Machynlleth said: “Joan and Rob were helpful and supportive to us from the early days.

“She was always ready with advice and support. Her passing is a great loss to hospitality and a great loss to Wales.”

During the last year of her life, Joan raised money for Bronglais Hospital’s Leri chemotherapy ward and the Myeloma, Lymphoma and Leukaemia Research Fund at Swansea’s Singleton Hospital.

Joan (pictured) leaves behind her husband Rob and two children, Kirsty and Chris.