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The Hotel Inspector followed best friends Jack and Danny in Thursday's episode as they endeavoured to rescue their hotel and pub.

The two companions, who had been inseparable since meeting on a ski season in 2010, had chosen to venture into business together, staking everything to operate the 16th-century Castle Inn, a 20-bedroom pub and restaurant in the picturesque village of Bramber, East Sussex.

Yet after six months, the pair were floundering as occupancy had nosedived, with Jack having to raid his wedding funds and Danny uprooting his young family from Birmingham to East Sussex to keep the business venture afloat.

Fortunately, renowned British hotelier, businesswoman and The Hotel Inspector presenter Alex Polizzi was on hand to assist the duo in turning things around. Alex, 54, was far from impressed with the hotel's bare and outdated décor, including artificial flowers and an abundance of white decoration throughout.

Alex even confessed she was "horrified" by the "ghastly" sitting area, declaring there was absolutely no charm whatsoever in the hotel, even comparing the space to a canteen.

As part of her strategy to address a number of damaging online reviews, Alex invited three separate pairs to come and stay. However, the following morning, the hotel guests were brutally candid as they delivered their forthright and unsparing feedback.

One guest remarked of the dining space and "wedding like" white padded chairs: "We use these [the chairs] in mental health hospitals because then people can't throw them at you..." to which Alex pointed out: "That's a new low!"

It was subsequently disclosed that the guests would be welcomed back, where they could witness the improvements made at the hotel and then offer a review.

Reflecting on the harsh feedback, one of the proprietors said: "Luckily we've actually got each other through this because otherwise I don't think I could have gone through that complete pounding alone."

Armed with a £5,000 renovation budget, the team set about transforming the dining area into a contemporary and sleek space featuring green panelled walls and stylish new furnishings. The team additionally made several alterations to the bedrooms, fitting luggage racks, elegant lamps and clearing out superfluous furniture.

Alex encouraged the pair to host a 'meet the owners' evening for local residents, which proved a resounding success, with previous guests praising the new additions and expressing their eagerness to return.

At the conclusion of the programme, following Alex's guidance and efforts, the duo shared an update four weeks on. They revealed: "Hi Alex, hope you're well...

"Just wanted to say, thank you very much for everything you and your team have done here. The locals have been raving about the changes, the food offerings, and the new decor. The vibes around the village are great!

"We've noticed a strong traction in repeat customers and new ones. Thank you very much for your support, hopefully see you soon!"

The Hotel Inspector continues on Thursdays at 9pm on Channel 5.