Financier Guy Hands takes a stake in Oatlands Village

Mr Hands, who lives locally, now owns a third of parent company F B Limited, alongside Chris Coles and the Bailiwick Investments fund.

His investment will see further development of Oatlands.

In 2015, Mr Coles and Bailiwick Investments formed F B Limited, a joint venture to purchase the six-acre site, and since then there has been a significant investment into the facilities.

This has included construction of one of the largest play barns nationally and more recently upgrading the crazy golf course to 32 holes and opening a drive-through restaurant.

‘With Guy’s involvement and the continued support of Bailiwick Investments, we will shortly open a nursery and have exciting plans to further expand our activities and provide entertainment for all ages,’ said Mr Coles.

Mr Hands said it was exciting to be involved in something different.

‘Oatlands is a wonderful place and offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a gift, school uniforms, chocolate or a new pet, wanting to entertain the children or enjoy delicious food,’ he said.

‘I’ve watched with interest the difference the investment from F B Limited has made and am delighted to join as a shareholder to enable further development and improvements.

‘We want Oatlands to be the island’s favourite year-round destination.’

F B Limited is one part of the Bailiwick Investments portfolio. Bailiwick has been investing in Channel Islands’ business for more than a decade.

Its portfolio includes the Guernsey Press.

‘Guy’s business acumen and achievements are well documented, and I have no doubt that he will bring a different perspective to F B Limited which will contribute to the continued success of Oatlands Village,’ said chairman Sir Geoffrey Rowland.

‘There are some great things planned for the future which we know will be welcomed by islanders and visitors alike who will continue to be huge supporters of Oatlands Village.’

Ravenscroft is investment manager to Bailiwick Investments, and group CEO Jon Ravenscroft welcomed Mr Hands as a partner.

‘It is refreshing to have the Hands’ family involvement as they are so committed and enthusiastic about investing in Guernsey and its future,’ he said.

In welcoming Mr Hands, Mr Coles also thanked former shareholder Gareth Griffin, who remains involved as a consultant. ‘Gareth’s experience from an operational perspective has been instrumental and we are delighted that we will still have access to his ideas and knowledge.’