Billy Griffiths said last night.

His disclosure follows news that two other hotels -- Sonesta Beach and Marriott's Castle Harbour Resort -- also face winter shutdowns.

Sonesta will be closed December 1 to March 18, and Marriott December 1 to February 5.

The announcements have damaged hopes of portraying the Island as an all year-round destination.

Around 870 rooms in total will be taken out of business for several months.

Last night Mr. Griffiths said his hotel would close from December 2 to 21 and from January 4 to March 5.

"It is quite normal for us to close in the winter. We have been doing so for many years. There is nothing sensational about it,'' he said.

Mr. Griffiths added renovations would be carried out during the shutdowns.