Macdonald Hotels News Feed

MACDONALD INCHYRA HOTEL & SPA HOSTS UNVEILING OF SPITFIRE MEMORIAL

Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa by Polmont in Stirlingshire, last week proudly hosted a reception to mark the unveiling of a full-size replica Spitfire as a memorial to 71 pilots killed on training flights in the area during the Second World War.

Around 200 cadets from the 133 (Grangemouth Spitfire) Squadron Air Training Corps and a host of veterans were in attendance at the reception partnered by the hotel. Special guests included 100-year-old former aircraft mechanic John 'Dinger' Bell who opened the memorial in a public garden in nearby Grangemouth.

During World War II, the original building of the four-star Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa, part of Macdonald Hotels & Resorts was used to house officers and the Women in the Airforce (WAF) while stationed at the nearby Grangemouth airfield. This base helped train fighter pilots, including pilots for Spitfires.

Seventy years later, Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa is renowned for its exceptional hospitality, business and conference facilities.

Yesterday's reception was hosted in The Inchyra Suite, one the largest (750 capacity) conference rooms in Scotland.

Brett Ingle, General Manager of Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa commented; "We were incredibly proud to partner such an event which is closely linked to our own history. To meet John and the dignitaries who attended this event was a fetching tribute to such a special memorial".

For information and booking go to www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/Inchyra

ABERDEENSHIRE'S MACDONALD PITTODRIE HOUSE SELECTED TO JOIN MACDONALD HOTELS SIGNATURE COLLECTION

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, the UK's largest privately owned hotel operator has announced that Macdonald Pittodrie House in Aberdeenshire is to be one of the 11 hotels selected to join 'The Macdonald Hotels' Signature Collection'. This reflects the hotel's continued commitment to provide guests with the highest industry standards of product and service delivery.

The launch of The Macdonald Hotels' Signature Collection comes just months after Macdonald Hotels & Resorts reported an operating profit, for the year ending 29 March 2012, before interest of £13.7m, an increase of 3% on the previous like for like year.

One of the finest four-star hotels in Aberdeenshire, the historic Macdonald Pittodrie House at Chapel of Garioch by Inverurie is set within 2,400 acres of beautiful estate lands, ensuring it's a popular choice for families, business and weddings.

The personalised service and fine attention to detail promised to guests' throughout their stay has ensured Macdonald Pittodrie House has been selected as one of the group's leading four-star hotels to proudly bear The Macdonald Hotels' Signature Collection status.

David Guile, Chief Executive, Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, commented: "All of our hotels are individual and special in their own way but The Macdonald Hotels' Signature Collection are special in every way. This is a fantastic opportunity to highlight our ongoing commitment to the highest standards of product and service and to signpost truly unique hotels, due to their location, history or recent level of investment.

"We are continuing to invest within our impressive portfolio and extremely pleased that Macdonald Pittodrie House has been chosen to represent the premium quality of Macdonald Hotels & Resorts"

Other 10 hotels selected from the 45 UK wide include the Macdonald Randolph Hotel and Macdonald Bear Hotel (Oxford), Macdonald Rusacks Hotel (St Andrews), Macdonald Compleat Angler (Marlow), Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa (North Berwick), Macdonald Windsor Hotel, Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa (Lake District), Macdonald Townhouse (Manchester), Macdonald Portal Hotel, Golf & Spa, Cheshire and Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel.

MACDONALD MARINE HOTEL & SPA BEDROOMS TO UNDERGO TRANSFORMATION WITH A £250,000 INVESTMENT

Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa, an iconic East Lothian destination and one of 11 hotels in 'The Macdonald Hotels' Signature Collection', is undergoing a £250,000 refurbishment of some of its premier rooms.

Scheduled for completion by the end of May 2013, the investment will see thirteen of the hotels bedrooms receive a significant transformation, including three Junior Suites, an Executive Four Poster Suite, and three Turret Suites which offer outstanding views of the beautiful coastal setting in North Berwick. Rich colours and decadent accents will complement the Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa's beautiful 19^th century Victorian architecture.

Seamus Coen, General Manager at Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa, commented: "We pride ourselves on delivering the highest standard of product, a personalised service and unfaltering attention to detail for all our guests, a value shared across the Macdonald Hotels & Resorts group.

"This investment will further guarantee our guests have the best experience possible, at what is already a fantastic destination for both business and leisure breaks."

Interior designer, Corrinne Muir at Guardian Soft Furnishings in Stirling offered an insight to the inspiration for styling the bedrooms, "Each of the rooms will undergo a full redesign, with the addition of new sofas and chairs in chenille fabrics, leathers and Moon wools complimented by rich mahogany furniture.

"In all 13 rooms we opted for a palette of warm reds and burgundies, with hints of gold adding a real touch of luxury. The architecture of this iconic building lends itself well to a really sumptuous interior, so we've borne that in mind when creating a really plush, rich look.

"Four of the rooms will also benefit from full bathrooms refits, with tiles from Porcelanosa, Vitra ceramics and Grohe showers, so guests can expect really exceptional facilities."

The Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa is one of the flagship destinations in the group, boasting luxurious leisure and spa facilities. The hotel also includes the award winning signature restaurant John Paul at the Marine where guests can enjoy the finest Scottish cuisine, cooked to perfection using locally sourced produce.

The hotel is also the perfect choice for golfers, who can choose from 20 championship courses in the surrounding area. Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa has been chosen by The R&A as its Headquarters for the 2013 Open Championship.

YOUNG CHEF FROM MACDONALD WINDSOR HOTEL INVITED TO COOK FOR THE PRINCE PHILIP TRUST FUND

Kelvin Beckley, 21, demi chef de partie at the Macdonald Windsor Hotel was invited to cook a three-course dinner for the Trustees of The Prince Philip Trust Fund including its Chairman, HRH The Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex at Windsor Guildhall on Wednesday, 24^th April.

The invitation from the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, Councillor Colin Rayner, asked if a young chef would like to prepare a three-course meal after the Trustees' meeting. Kelvin designed the entire menu which he cooked at the Guildhall, assisted by colleagues from the hotel's kitchen brigade. The meal was also served by a young group from the food and beverage team.

After a pre-dinner reception, the first course comprised a plate of John Ross Junior seafood prepared and smoked by Kelvin. This follows a recent educational visit to the John Ross smokery in Aberdeenshire with the hotel's head chef, Gareth Long.

For the main course Kelvin chose roast medallions of 21-day aged Scottish beef fillet and for pudding white chocolate and lavender custard with gingerbread; each dish was carefully matched with a different wine. The meal was completed with a choice of Fair Trade coffee or tea accompanied by macerated cherries dipped in dark chocolate and butter spiced shortbread.

Kelvin, who attended Desborough School in Maidenhead, completed his apprenticeship at the Royal Oak in Twyford. He then spent two years working through the kitchen sections completing NVQ2 in hospitality and Professional Cookery and his Food Hygiene qualifications. Kelvin takes his inspiration from the science of Heston Blumenthal and the traditional timeless classics of Raymond Blanc.

The Scottish Steak Club at Caleys Lounge in the contemporary townhouse Macdonald Windsor Hotel was awarded an AA rosette for its excellent cuisine and service last year. For more details call the Macdonald Windsor Hotel on 0844 879 9101, www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/Windsor.

GILL JACKSON APPOINTED NEW HEAD OF SALES AT MACDONALD HOTELS & RESORTS

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, the UK's largest privately owned hotel group, with a portfolio of over 45 four and five star hotels and resorts throughout the UK and Spain, has announced the appointment of Gill Jackson as new Head of Sales.

Gill joins Macdonald Hotels & Resorts with responsibility for overseeing all sales activity across the group portfolio, including the development of the Meeting@ proposition*, making it a conference product of choice for agents and conference organisers across the country.

Based in Merseyside, Gill brings with her over 22 years of industry experience, having worked with training and conference venue providers, large conference and exhibition facilities and four/five star hotels across the UK.

Gill joins Macdonald Hotels & Resorts from her previous role as Sales Director for De Vere Hotels and De Vere Group. Prior to that she held positions including Group Sales Manager for Verve Venues, and Area Sales Manager for Initial Style Conferences. This is not the first time Gill has worked with Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, having spent time during her early career as Sales Manager for Savill Court Hotel near Windsor.

Gill commented: "Joining Macdonald Hotels & Resorts at a time when the brand is really driving forward is a really exciting prospect. Ongoing investment, such as the work completed at Macdonald Rusacks Hotel, St Andrews and the £0.5million spent at Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel, Preston as part of a wider £5million project, is a great reflection of a brand that really wants to grow.

"I'm looking forward to working with a group that has already honed a superb and well-maintained product, and whose philosophy is based on service excellence and attention to detail - not to mention quality food sourcing - very much values I share.

"Going forward we will be working hard to implement as new sales system and way of working across the group, so joining at this point is a challenge I relish. I loook forward to sharing my experience with the wider sales team and forging a strong relationship across the Macdonald Hotels & Resorts group to ensure we continue to flourish."

Commenting on Gill's appointment, Ruaridh Macdonald, Operations, Sales & Marketing Director for Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, added: "I'm delighted that Gill has decided to join our senior management team. She brings with her a wealth of experience in our sector and has an incredible reputation in the industry.

"We are currently investing heavily into the training and development of our sales team and systems, and Gill will be spearheading our drive forward. Following a really positive year for conference business - up 8% to the end of March - Gill will make a very positive contribution to sales activities across the group."

*The all-inclusive Meeting@ conference product promises the highest standards of service and product with no hidden extras. Available at over 45 hotel locations across the UK, bookers of conference and meeting space are assured of receiving the same quality of food ingredients in conference and banqueting menus as used in the restaurant. The Meeting@ package also includes a promise to respond to initial conference enquiries within an hour through the Conference Direct service - and receipt of a written proposal by email within two hours.

JEREMY WARES AT MACDONALD HOUSTOUN HOUSE CELEBRATES SECOND AA ROSETTE

The acclaimed Jeremy Wares at Houstoun House restaurant within Macdonald Houstoun House has been awarded a second AA rosette, marking a significant achievement for the fine-dining venue led by award-winning executive chef Jeremy Wares.

With Master Chef of Great Britain Jeremy Wares at the helm along with head chef David Murray, the team have developed the restaurant's offering to a consistently high standard, reflecting the Macdonald Hotels & Resorts commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients from around the UK. Having opened just less than a year ago, this recent accolade is a resounding acknowledgement of the work that has been done in this time to achieve higher standards and improved consistency.

Commenting on the award, Jeremy said: "We're absolutely thrilled to have been awarded a second AA rosette. Since launching in 2012 we have been working incredibly hard to offer guests an exceptional dining experience, and ultimately reach this goal.

"As one of the flagship destinations in the Macdonald Hotels & Resorts group, we pride ourselves on serving only the best dishes in our restaurant, concentrating on quality fresh and seasonal produce.

"We're looking forward to continuing our success and building on this fantastic achievement in the coming months."

Wares was brought on board last year to bring a fresh pair of eyes to the team, along with a wealth of experience having spent over 20 years in the industry. He has worked in some of the best restaurants in the world and had the pleasure of cooking for a host of celebrities and well-known figures including the late Princess Diana, President Mitterrand and Hollywood greats Michael Caine, Liam Neeson and the actress Joanna Lumley.

Offering locally sourced cuisine with a modern twist, all dishes at Jeremy Wares at Houstoun House are based on only the finest freshest and where possible locally sourced produce, always prepared from whole raw ingredients.

ENJOY A HERITAGE TWO NIGHT BREAK AT MACDONALD ALVESTON MANOR HOTEL

Macdonald Alveston Manor Hotel is offering guests the perfect excuse to explore the history and culture of Stratford-upon-Avon with a two night "Heritage" break for less.

Set in the very heart of Shakespeare Country and in close proximity to beautiful Cotswold villages, the historic and luxurious Macdonald Alveston Manor Hotel is set in its own grounds just 5 minute walk from the quaint canal barges, river walks, boutiques, restaurants, bars and famous cultural attractions of Stratford-upon-Avon.

From just £80 per person per night, guests can enjoy overnight accommodation in a Classic double or twin room inclusive of a Full English Breakfast and a three course dinner on the first night in the Hotel's Award winning restaurant. In addition, guests will receive a complementary ticket to one of the three main historic attractions in the area: Shakespeare Houses, Blenheim Palace and Warwick Castle. Book from now to 30 September 2013 and stay from now to 30 September 2013.

To make a booking call 0844 879 9210.

Terms and Conditions:

This offer is subject to availability and cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion. The stay must be a minimum of two or more nights. Weekend, single and upgrade supplements apply. Full pre-payment will be taken at the time of booking which is non-refundable and non-transferable. One ticket per full paying adult is included.

Seasonal opening times apply for Blenheim Palace and Mary Ardens house & farm. Please check their opening times prior to arrival to prevent disappointment. No alternative attraction can be offered.

DUO CHECK INTO NEW ROLES AT MACDONALD HOTELS & RESORTS

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, the UK's largest privately owned hotel group has announced two new general manager appointments as the award winning hotel group continues its drive to deliver the highest standards of service and product.

The new appointments come just a month after Macdonald Hotels & Resorts reported an operating profit, for the year ending 29 March 2012, before interest of £13.7m, an increase of 3% on the previous like for like year.

Stuart Maxwell joins Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Golf & Spa in Peebles and Eileen Newman has taken the helm at Macdonald Crutherland House in East Kilbride.

With 24 years experience in the industry, Stuart has worked his way up from the bottom, starting out as pot washer at the age of fifteen. The Scot has previously held general manager roles at Shrigley Hall Hotel, Golf & Country Club in Cheshire, The Marine Hotel Troon, Fairfield House Hotel in Ayr, and Edinburgh Capital Hotel.

Stuart commented: "As a keen golfer, who is passionate about the hospitality industry Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Golf & Spa offers an exciting opportunity for me to lead the team. I have always admired Macdonald Hotels & Resorts' reputation for providing high quality accommodation and exceptional customer care. And when time permits I can't wait to get out on our 18-hole golf course!"

Eileen joins the leading hotel group from The Beardmore Hotel & Conference Centre in Clydebank, where VIP guests included Her Majesty the Queen on four separate occasions. With over 25 year's industry experience, Eileen's career began as a silver service waitress, before moving on to front of house roles and management.

Commenting on the two new appointments, Ruaridh Macdonald, Operations Director for Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, added: "We are delighted with the new appointments. Both Stuart and Eileen are passionate about the hospitality industry and we look forward to them using their golf and conference experience and expertise to further enhance and bring new innovative ideas to their respective new hotels. The previous general managers; Morag Stark and Margaret Fraser have both taken up new general manager positions in the group at Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa and Norwood House Hotel respectively. We are particularly excited about a forthcoming half million pound investment at Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel that Morag will lead".

MACDONALD BOTLEY PARK HOTEL GETS ACTIVE IN AID OF ACTION FOR CHILDREN

Staff from Macdonald Botley Park Hotel, Southampton, will be taking part in a range of exciting activities from abseiling and dragon boat racing to marathons, to raise £10,000 for Action for Children in 2013. To date the hotel has raised £2000 towards the year-end target.

Action for Children; a leading children's charity which supports vulnerable and neglected children, has been chosen by staff to be the Hotel's charity partner for 2013.

Jason Nixon, General Manager from Macdonald Botley Park Hotel says "The team at the hotel has really embraced the initiative. What started out as a straight forward fundraising pledge to raise £10,000 for vulnerable and neglected children in our community, is growing into much more.

"The partnership will also provide exciting life opportunities for young people from Wessex Fostering Project, such as cooking with our award-winning chef and receiving golf lessons with our pro-golfer. Staff will not only have fun taking part in fundraising activities, but they'll have opportunities to mentor and coach children and young people".

Lauren Fitzgerald, Fundraiser for Action for Children said "We're delighted that Macdonald Botley Park Hotel has chosen us as their charity partner for 2013. The £10,000 they plan to raise and the opportunities they are providing for fostered children, will make a real difference to our work supporting vulnerable and neglected children.

As part of Macdonald Botley Park Hotel adopting Action for Children as its Charity of the Year:

The hotel will host a Summer Fun Day and BBQ on 27^th July
Staff will abseil down the 170 metre Spinmaker Tower in Portsmouth - 25^th August 2013
A fifteen person crew will take part in the Windsor Dragon Boat Race - September 2013
General Manager Jason Nixon will be running in Reading Half Marathon - 17^th March, the London Marathon - 21 April and the Bournemouth Marathon - 6^th October 2013
There will be cookery lessons with the hotel's award winning chef Robert Quehan
There will be swimming lessons for young carers in the hotel's spa
There will be golf lessons for young carers with the hotel's pro golfer Mark Smith

ONGOING COMMITMENT TO QUALITY SEES LAUNCH OF ‘THE MACDONALD HOTELS’ SIGNATURE COLLECTION’

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, the UK's largest privately owned hotel operator has today, announced that 11 of its 45 hotels are to join 'The Macdonald Hotels' Signature Collection'- reflecting their continued commitment to provide guests with the highest industry standards of product and service delivery.

The launch of The Macdonald Hotels' Signature Collection comes just weeks after Macdonald Hotels & Resorts reported an operating profit, for the year ending 29 March 2012, before interest of £13.7m, an increase of 3% on the previous like for like year.

Promising captivating and historic locations, award-winning restaurants, a personalised service and fine attention to detail throughout the guests stay, only the group's leading five-star, 4-star red and upper 4-star hotels will proudly bear The Macdonald Hotels' Signature Collection status; Macdonald Randolph Hotel and Macdonald Bear Hotel (Oxford), Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel, Macdonald Compleat Angler (Marlow), Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa (North Berwick), Macdonald Rusacks Hotel (St Andrews), Macdonald Windsor Hotel, Macdonald Old England Hotel (Lake District), Macdonald Pittodrie House, Nr Aberdeen, Macdonald Portal Hotel, Golf & Spa, Cheshire and Macdonald Townhouse Hotel, Manchester.

"We are fortunate to have an impressive portfolio of hotels and now look forward to rolling out The Macdonald Hotels' Signature Collection across 11 carefully selected venues where guests can be assured of the very best our hotel group has to offer."

As a further part of the launch, those upper four-star hotels aim to work towards achieving a four-star red status and Macdonald Rusacks Hotel, arguably the world's most iconic golfing hotel and home to the three-AA rosette awarded Rocca Bar and Grill Restaurant is already undergoing a £650,000 bedroom investment programme to help it strive for this status. Additional investments have also been made to several hotels within the new collection, including bedroom refurbishments at Macdonald Randolph Hotel, Macdonald Bear Hotel and soon to be started at Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa with further public area upgrades at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa.

As a group, Macdonald Hotels & Resorts prides itself on the quality of its food presentation and quality, promising to serve dishes prepared from only the finest and freshest produce. With the offer of bespoke menus, further refinements to the dining experience in all bar, lounge and restaurant areas and 19 AA rosettes across The Macdonald Hotels' Signature Collection, guests are also assured of the satisfying taste of award-winning dining.

MACDONALD HOTELS & RESORTS INVESTS OVER £3 MILLION IN A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

Nobody likes to get out of the bed on the wrong side, so Macdonald Hotels & Resorts is set to invest £3.5 million throughout 2013 to ensure all guests enjoy a good night's sleep.

The news of this investment comes just weeks after Macdonald Hotels & Resorts reported an operating profit, for the year ending 29 March 2012, before interest of £13.7m, an increase of 3% on the previous like for like year.

By the end of year, 220 of its luxury bedrooms across 12 four and five star hotels throughout the UK will benefit from its continued programme of investment. This announcement comes as National Bed Month hits the UK for the month of March.

With a mere 40% of people in the UK admitting to regularly sleeping well*, the refurbishments ensure all key features of the bedrooms have been considered to ensure optimum sleeping conditions. Everything has been thought of from black out fabric in the curtains to exclude all natural light to the deluxe mattresses on every bed; designed specifically for hotel use.

Every bed is made with 1,200 springs to actively minimise pressure points and help increase circulation allows muscles to relax. The independent movement of each individual pocket spring ensures the mattress moulds itself to the shape of the body ensuring the natural alignment of the spine.

David Guile Chief Executive for Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, commented: "We all know that your quality of sleep greatly affects how you feel the next day and here at Macdonald Hotels & Resorts we take our provision of comfort very seriously, and strive to ensure all our guests enjoy a great night's sleep.

"Our mattress brand of choice is Hypnos, and with over 100 years' experience they craft some of the finest mattresses money can buy. They supply Her Royal Majesty the Queen with her mattresses, so we are delighted to offer this high quality brand to all our bedrooms as standard.

Paul Brennen from Hypnos Beds commented: "The mattress is the key ingredient for a great night's sleep - far more important than pillows, duvets or linen. It is the make or break factor. A mattress is also the most important feature in any hotel, it is the touch point between the hotel and the guest."

David Guile added: "We are pleased to be currently undergoing a £650,000 investment to bedrooms at the iconic Macdonald Rusacks Hotel in St. Andrews, with Macdonald Leeming House and The Swan Hotel in the Lake District and Macdonald Elmers Court Hotel & Resort, in the New Forest, having already benefit from the investment".

National Bed Month was created by The Sleep Council which in turn is funded by the National Bed Federation, the trade association for British bed manufacturers. Established since 1995, it is the consumer education arm that aims to raise awareness of the importance of a good night's sleep to health and wellbeing and provide helpful advice and tips on how to improve sleep quality.

*A report by the Mental Health Foundation in 2011 found that just 40 per cent of adults slept well.

RETREAT TO 5 STAR LUXURY FOR ‘BATH IN FASHION 2013’

Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel is offering avid followers of fashion visiting 'Bath in Fashion 2013' the chance kick off their vertiginous heels and rest their weary feet in five star luxury for a whole lot less this April. From just £159 per room fashioniastas can soak up this fabulous event in style.

Bath in Fashion 2013 celebrates fashion, textiles and art. The theme of 'Looking at Fashion' brings much loved illustrators David Downton and Julie Verhoeven to Bath as well as an important exhibition to mark the centenary of Norman Parkinson's birth curated by Roland Mouret. This year's event runs from 15th to 21st April.

Art historian and broadcaster Sir Roy Strong will be talking at the Holburne Museum, and the Fashion Museum celebrates a big birthday with '50 Fabulous Frocks', whilst respected fashion commentators like Sarah Mower, Hamish Bowles and Hilary Alexander keep Bath firmly on their radar.

Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel offers guests a hidden haven of beauty and timeless elegance in the heart of the historic city. One of the finest 5-star hotels in Bath, overlooking stunning landscaped gardens and offering first-class accommodation in superb surroundings, Macdonald Bath Spa the ideal location for stylish visitors to retreat after a tough day in the fashion limelight.

Book from now to 21 Apr 2013. Stay from 15 Apr 2013 to 21 Apr 2013.

Call now to book on 0844 8799106. Alternatively, book online using promotion code VH9.

Terms & Conditions
Supplements apply for Saturdays.
Rooms must be cancelled by 2pm the day prior to arrival to avoid charges. A credit card must be used to secure the booking.

A GOOD CATCH - MACDONALD HOTELS PUT SKREI ON THE MENU

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts is now offering seafood fans the opportunity to enjoy sustainably sourced Norwegian SKREI® as part of the group's new seasonal menu, available from just £13.50 per person.

SKREI®, known as the 'Norwegian miracle cod', return in their millions every winter from the Barents Sea to Lofoten Islands. Considered a delicacy by many fine chefs, like Michel Roux, SKREI® is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. And like all of Norway's cod, it's sustainably managed and MSC certified so diners can enjoy this fish with a conscience as clear as the cold waters it comes from.

John Paul McLachlan, Regional Development Chef at Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, commented: "As one of Norway's seasonal delicacies, Skrei has a lean muscularity to its flesh which results in a meaty and flavoursome fish. From poaching and serving simply with melted butter seasoned with lemon to roasting with rock salt, Skrei lends itself to a myriad of tasty dishes that diners can try in our restaurants up and down the country."

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts has introduced SKREI® cod to UK menus at a selection of their 45 hotels and resorts this winter alongside mussels, also in season. The UK's largest independently owned hotel group continues to serve only the finest freshest produce to create flavoursome dishes that are always prepared from whole raw ingredients, sourced locally and seasonally whenever possible.

Try a fillet of wild roast Norwegian SKREI® cod with creamed potatoes, curly kale and mussel cream this winter from only £13.50 per person at Macdonald Hotels & Resorts restaurants until April 2013.

MACDONALD INCHYRA HOTEL & SPA LAUNCHES FITECH

A year after the official launch of the Macdonald Hotels & Resorts 'Spa Collection', the award winning hotel group has invested further in its wellbeing by becoming one of the first hotel groups in the UK to introduce free, innovative Vital Health & Wellbeing checks through industry respected FITECH.

And leading the way in Scotland is Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa by Polmont in East Central Scotland. Since its multi-million pound refurbishment in 2011 it has become one of 17 Vital Health & Wellbeing Clubs to launch FITECH.

The FITECH Wellness and Fitness testing system, designed to encourage participants to embrace a healthier way of life to achieve fitness and lifestyle goals, is currently used by the likes of the military, police and fire services. Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa offers the handy wellness programme free to existing members and guests.

The spa and leisure club facilities indulge guests with the latest Technogym equipment, a pool, scented steam room and the finest skin-care products from Decléor and FITECH is another great benefit to existing members of the Club.

FITECH commences with an initial individual Lifestyle Review, which covers areas such as stress, nutrition, drinking habits, smoking and activity levels. Crucially, it also enables participants to discuss their current health status, wellness goals and motivation.

FITECH assessment results and responses to lifestyle questionnaires are evaluated against the national average and presented to participants in a report format. The easy to understand document follows a simple traffic light system indicating: Green = Good, Amber = Need for improvement and Red = Below Average. Areas that need work are identified and advice is given on how to make amends, with realistic tweaks to current lifestyles that take into consideration work and family commitments.

Over the next 12 months Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa will extend its already impressive spa services by introducing Holistic Therapies that cater for savvy consumers looking for results driven treatments that target ailments including physiotherapy and sports therapy. Alternative treatments will also make their debut on the service menu to attract a more diverse clientele and to complete the all encompassed wellbeing offering.

General Manager of Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa, Brett Ingle commented: "Since launching FITECHit has been a popular facility with our members and guests. Because it charts progress in a very visual way with graphs, it is easy for people to see how they are performing against their fitness and lifestyle goals. We find this is incredibly motivating, and it reassures members that goals we set with them are absolutely achievable."

To find out more about FITECH and memberships of Vital Health & Wellbeing Club, contact 01324 710630.

MACDONALD HOTELS & RESORTS RETAINS COVETED CARBON TRUST STANDARD

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, the UK's largest privately owned hotel group, today announced that it has retained the coveted Carbon Trust Standard.

As part of Macdonald Hotels & Resorts' innovative Room 15 initiative, the market leading hotel group has set itself a target of reducing electricity and fossil fuel use across the business by 15% by 2015.

The independently verified Carbon Trust Standard is only awarded to organisations that provide genuine proof of a reduction in their organisational carbon footprint to help combat the global impact of climate change. Over the assessment period Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, with a portfolio of over forty 4 and 5 star hotels and resorts across the UK and Spain, has reduced its UK CO2 emissions by 7.5%. Macdonald Hotels & Resorts is committed to further improvements, and has invested over £700,000 in energy saving projects, including light sensor devices in corridor / conference areas, in both the UK and Spain in the last year alone.

Retaining the coveted Carbon Trust Standard is a major achievement for Macdonald Hotels & Resorts. The award comes after a string of recent environmental accolades; it was named 2012-2013 AA Eco-Hotel Group of the Year, and received the 2012 Good Egg Award for the commitment to sourcing eggs locally to reduce food miles.

Referring to the significance of achieving the Carbon Trust Standard, Gordon Fraser, Finance Director of Macdonald Hotels & Resorts and Chair of the Room 15 Committee, commented: "I am incredibly proud of the contribution every employee across the hotel group has made to ensure we have secured the Carbon Trust Standard.

"We take our responsibilities seriously, and the issues of sustainability and energy conservation are a priority. While we have created an in-house Energy Committee, we still have more projects to deliver before we meet our Room 15 target for 2015. The Carbon Trust Standard is testament to the progress we are making each year, coming closer to where we want to be reducing electricity and fossil fuel usage by 15%."

Gordon Fraser added, "We were astonished at the impact our decision to install LED lights in 5 hotels has had in just one year, saving, over 852 tonnes of CO2.

"We were pleased to be able to report an improvement in carbon efficiency across our UK operations at the first assessment of 7.9% per room sold, this has continued with further efficiency gains of 6% at the new certification. With regards our Room 15 targets we are currently tracking a 5.1 % reduction in electricity, 13.1 % in gas, and 25 % in LPG gas. I am very confident we are on track for our 2015 target."

Darran Messem, Managing Director of Certification at the Carbon Trust commented: "The action taken by MacDonald Hotels & Resorts sets a fantastic example, both for guests and the hospitality industry, showing that sustainability and comfort can go hand-in-hand. Retaining the Carbon Trust Standard demonstrates a genuine commitment to reducing carbon emissions year-on-year and playing a part in combating climate change."

Notes to editors

Established in 1990 by Donald Macdonald and colleagues, over the past 23 years Macdonald Hotels & Resorts has steadily and successfully expanded from its beginnings in the Scottish highlands to become the UK's largest privately owned hotel group.

Operating over 40 hotels across the UK and ten resorts throughout the UK and Spain, the group continues to invest and now employs over 4,400 staff and operates in excess of 4,500 hotel rooms.

Firmly committed to excellence, the leading hotelier continues to invest to offer its guests the highest standards of product and service delivery across a portfolio of beautiful, individual hotels.

And whatever the dining occasion; breakfast, business meeting, conference, banquet or intimate dinner, Macdonald Hotels & Resorts is proud of its promise to serve only the finest and freshest produce, with flavoursome dishes always prepared from whole raw ingredients.

A forward-thinking, environmentally responsible hotel group, through its 'Room 15' programme led by internal 'green teams', Macdonald Hotels & Resorts continues to focus on achieving ambitious, self-imposed energy saving targets. This includes reducing its electricity and fossil fuel usage by 15% by 2015.

This unwavering commitment to achieving the highest quality standards in every aspect of the business has seen Macdonald Hotels & Resorts receive numerous prestigious accolades. This has included, the MIDAS award for the Best Breakfast 2011/12, National Customer Service Awards for Leisure and Tourism and the coveted 2011/2013 Carbon Trust Standard.

RETURN OF THE DRAGON - MACDONALD HOTELS & RESORTS RE-ENTERS WELSH MARKET AFTER MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT WITH TOP SWANSEA HOTEL

Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, the UK's largest privately owned hotel operator has re-entered the Welsh market after reaching, on undisclosed terms, a management agreement with the recently refurbished Dragon Hotel in Swansea city centre.

Effective from 17^th January 2013, the agreement ensures The Dragon Hotel, that continues to be owned by London and Devonshire Trust, will benefit from the cost synergies, distribution channel opportunities and sales and marketing support already afforded to the other 45 owned and managed Macdonald Hotels & Resorts within the UK and Europe-wide portfolio.

The agreement with The Dragon Hotel comes just weeks after Macdonald Hotels reported a profit after tax of £1.9m for the year ending 29 March 2012 with a like for like comparison of trading results also revealing an increase of group turnover by 2% to £139.5m and operating profit before interest by 3% to £13.7m.

While there are currently no plans to incorporate the Macdonald Hotels & Resorts brand name into 'The Dragon Hotel', staff within the business will now receive the high standards of product and service training offered by Macdonald Hotels & Resorts to ensure consistency of delivery across its group.

Chris Gillett, Managing Director of Macdonald Hotels Management Services Ltd, commented: "The Dragon Hotel is a modern, extensively refurbished city centre based hotel with appeal to the corporate, conference and leisure markets. This management agreement enables us to re-establish our presence in the Welsh market and to add real value to the hotel's business - and in particular its corporate market.

"Macdonald Hotels & Resorts now looks forward to working with the management team of The Dragon Hotel to further enhance its market appeal and profitability in the months ahead."

Until its sale in 2006, Macdonald Hotels & Resorts owned Macdonald Holland House Hotel in Cardiff.

Refurbished at a cost of £3.5 million and recipient of the 'Best Hotel in Swansea Award at the 2010 Swansea Life Awards,' The Dragon Hotel is just minutes walk from Swansea's Central Rail Station and easily accessed by road.

Ideal for business and conference guests, it offers tasteful bedrooms, while conference planners and bookers have the choice of four contemporary meeting and conference spaces, including the 230 capacity Pembrey Suite. In addition to WiFi throughout the hotel, guests can also take advantage of excellent health and leisure facilities, including the 18-metre swimming pool and dine in the award winning AA Rosette Dragon Brasserie.

RETURN OF A GREAT SCOTTISH CLASSIC

Renowned for choosing quality and fresh ingredients to create delicious meals, Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, theUK's largest privately owned hotel group is championing the return of that timeless classic - the Great Scottish Sunday lunch!

A Scottish culinary institution, it was once the highlight of the week bringing families together over the dinner table. Yet figures reveal that over the past 50 years the number of those enjoying a traditional Sunday Lunch has halved.

So from, 4 January 2013, Macdonald Hotels & Resorts has launched the Great Scottish Sunday Lunch Campaignto resurrect the appeal of the delicious traditional Sunday lunch with all the trimmings.

And to kick off the campaign in style, the leading hotel group, with an impressive 45 AA Rosettes held by its restaurants across the UK, is offering a new traditional Sunday Lunch menu from just £15 per person for two courses, including a glass of wine or soft drink.

From Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa in the heart ofScotlandto the rolling countryside around Macdonald Cardrona Hotel, Golf & Spa in the Scottish Borders, the revival of the Great Scottish Sunday lunch will allow family and friends of all ages to savour classic gastronomic delights.

Using only the finest, freshest and where possible locally sourced produce, prepared from whole raw ingredients, diners can enjoy traditional soups, a roast of the day with seasonal vegetarian alternatives, and nostalgic puddings including apple crumble or bread and butter pudding.

Ruaridh Macdonald, Operations Director of Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, commented: "Sunday lunch was once a time when friends and family gathered together for a catch up over a succulent roast. However, in today's generation with an ever increasing array of leisure activities to tempt us, we have moved away from the traditional Sunday gathering.

"In a year that has seen the UK celebrate the Queen's Jubilee and Scottish athletes taking the lead at the Olympics, not to mention the forthcoming 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, there are many who have enjoyed the greater sense of community and national spirit. So what better time to revisit and revive the appeal of the Great Scottish Sunday lunch as a savoured classic - and at prices that offer outstanding value."

To book your Great Scottish Sunday Lunch please contact your local Macdonald Hotel directly.

TOP SCOTTISH CHEFS COOK UP £20,000 FOR PARKINSON’S CHARITY

The great and the good of Edinburgh came together at Macdonald Houstoun House hotel last month, to raise a staggering £20k for Parkinson's charity Wobbly Williams.

Led by the new, award-winning executive chef Jeremy Wares who launched his eponymous restaurant, Jeremy Wares at Houstoun House earlier this year and is also a Master Chef ofGreat Britain, the gourmet extravaganza saw six top Scottish chefs serve up a banquet of delectable dishes for guests.

The event was held to raise money for Wobbly Williams, an organisation that aims to bring a positive attitude to people diagnosed with Parkinson's; a charity very close to Jeremy's heart. The talented chef was diagnosed with the condition at the age of 36 - one of the youngest cases inScotland. Yet the award winning-chef is undeterred and determined to fully realise his vision and ambitions in the kitchen.

He commented "We are thrilled with the overwhelming support and the fantastic amount of money raised on the evening. Thanks to the generosity of our food and drink supplier - and the support of the talented chefs - every penny made will be donated to help find a cure. Hosting this charity dinner is something I have wanted to do for a long time and I'm so pleased it has been such a success."

Jeremy Wares at Houstoun House, just two minutes from the M8 motorway, is located within the beautiful interior of Macdonald Houstoun House Hotel that dates back to the 16^th century and once hosted Mary Queen of Scots. Set in 22 acres of mature woodland and grounds, guests enjoy stylish bedrooms, WiFi throughout, conference space for up to 400 delegates and access to a luxurious Vital Health & Wellbeing Club and Spa.

FROM KITCHEN PORTER TO GENERAL MANAGER AT MACDONALD INCHYRA HOTEL & SPA

With 23 years experience in the industry, Brett has worked his way up through the ranks, starting out as kitchen porter at the age of fourteen at family run Revelstoke Hotel in Bridlington. With Macdonald Hotels & Resorts since 2001, the Yorkshireman initially joined Macdonald Albrighton Hall near Shrewsbury as Catering Manager and prior to his current role, was General Manager at Macdonald Houstoun House to the west of Edinburgh.

Brett commented: "I was very pleased to be offered this role with key responsibility for driving forward the corporate, conference and leisure opportunities at Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa, following its £4 million refurbishment last year. Macdonald Hotels & Resorts is committed to developing and creating opportunities for its people and I have been very fortunate to benefit from a series of training and development programmes.

"And as a hotel that's located in the heart of Scotland, just minutes from the M9 motorway and within 30 minutes drive of Edinburgh Airport, I am keen to drive our conference business. We have six naturally lit meeting rooms with the Inchyra Suite being one of the largest hotel conference suites in the Central Belt, accommodating up to 750 delegates. There's even space for a car in our Inchyra Suite. - great news for a keen motorist like me who would love to accommodate a car launch!"

Brett's background in catering ensures he shares the passion and firm promise across Macdonald Hotels & Resorts to serve only the finest freshest produce and to consistently deliver to the highest standards. Flavoursome dishes are always prepared from whole raw ingredients and sourced locally and seasonally whenever possible. He commented: "We serve mostly wild Scottish fish and enjoy working closely with local suppliers, including Graham's the Family Diary and John Ross Junior for smoked fish."

Commenting on Brett's appointment, Ruaridh Macdonald, OperationsDirector for Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, added: "Brett is well placed to take on this role having been with our company for 11 years in roles including Catering Manager, Hotel Operations Manager and most recently General Manager at Macdonald Houstoun House. He's an asset to our team and we are pleased to offer him the opportunity to further drive the excellent reputation enjoyed by Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa, one of our key hotels in the heart of Scotland."

And underlining his passion for the industry, Brett first completed an HND in Hotel, Catering and Institutional Management at Leeds Metropolitan University and Thomas Danby College, Leeds and subsequently, through Macdonald Hotels & Resorts, passed an Institute of Leadership and Management Diploma (level 5).

During his first appointment as General Manager at Macdonald Ansty Hall Hotel, he and his team were very proud to receive Macdonald Hotels & Resorts Customer Service Hotel of the Year Award.

MACDONALD RUSACKS HOTEL RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS SCOTTISH GOLF TOURISM AWARD

Macdonald Rusacks Hotel in St Andrews was recently named Best Large Hotel of the Year at the prestigious Scottish Golf Tourism Awards held in Edinburgh. The annual event is widely regarded as the 'Oscars of the golfing world'.

Located within a sand wedge of the 18^th hole of the world's most famous golf course, the Old Course, the four-star Macdonald Rusacks Hotel is one of few hotels in Scotland to offer guests the services of a dedicated golf concierge.

Overlooking the St Andrews Old Course with the golden sweep of West Sands beach beyond and within easy reach of over a dozen world class golf courses, Macdonald Rusacks Hotel enjoys global appeal among golf enthusiasts.

All 70 bedrooms are named after golfing greats and stories linked to the 'home of golf.' Consequently, guests may choose to stay within the Young Tom Morris or Old Tom Morris suites offering dramatic views over the Old Course.

Kevin Keenan, General Manager at Macdonald Rusacks Hotel, commented: "We are very pleased to accept the award for Best Large Hotel of the Year from the Scottish Golf Tourism Awards. My team has worked tirelessly over the last year to look after the many guests who have travelled from across the globe to visit the home of golf and enjoy the highest standards of service as our guests.

"And following the recent refurbishment of our public areas, we look forward to further strengthening the hotel's appeal with the planned refurbishment of 38 of our bedrooms in January."

Built in 1887, Macdonald Rusacks Hotel exudes a charm and inviting ambience that has attracted many famous faces, including golfing great Arnold Palmer and the late Bing Crosby, the legendary Hollywood star.

This latest accolade for Macdonald Rusacks Hotel follows the Rocca Bar & Grill, located within the hotel, receiving its third AA rosette for its outstanding culinary dining experience. The hotel also incorporates the welcoming 'R Bar' and the promise of high quality dining within 'The One Under' gastro-pub. This reflects Macdonald Hotels & Resorts group-wide promise to serve only the finest freshest produce and to always prepare dishes from whole raw ingredients.