CHESTER’S new 60 bedroom Travelodge was officially opened today as part of a £2.5m investment which has created 20 jobs.

Chester MP Christine Russell performed the official opening, escorted by a dozen Roman soldiers.

The hotel will offer rooms from £29 per night and is located in the former telephone exchange building on St John’s Street. It is the company’s 345th Travelodge.

Guests at the official opening were treated to a Roman themed party, which marked a ‘Celebration to Janus’, the Roman God of New Ventures and New Beginnings.

A dozen Roman soldiers, two horn-blowers and a standard bearer greeted visitors, while Alison Watson, community heritage manager at Chester History & Heritage, gave a presentation on the history of the Travelodge building.

Guests feasted on Roman delicacies, including figs, olives, honey and yoghurt, and Italian cheeses