A SPECIAL THANK-YOU AT REFURBISHED HOTEL

One of Chester's oldest hotels is paying tribute to its loyal staff and customers by making them a permanent fixture.

The Macdonald New Blossoms Hotel in St John's Street has named two bedroom suites after a long-term employee and a regular guest to mark a new era in the hotel following its £3 million refurbishment.

The Rose Suite is named after long-standing night manager Roy Rose and The Westcott Suite is named after current Chester Rotary Club president Brian Westcott.

Regional Managing Director Debbie Johnson, who came up with the idea, said: "We wanted to do something special to mark the new era of the hotel by paying tribute to some of the people who have supported us throughout our history.

"Roy has worked for us for over 20 years and his dedication deserves this recognition.

"And we wanted to say thank-you to the Rotary Club for using our premises for so many years. We are grateful for their continued support."

Club president Brian Westcott said: "I was honoured when I heard a suite would be named after me. The Rotary Club has held weekly meetings since 1922 and we have used the hotel for most of that period.

"We are keen to promote the Rotary Club as much as possible and if this will encourage more people to find out what we do, then all the better."

Plaques have now been made for the doors and will be unveiled this month.

The £3 million refurbishment by owners Macdonald Hotels and Resorts has completely transformed the property, which began life as an inn in 1410.

The historic hotel, in the heart of the city, was closed for four months while the 67 en suite bedrooms, conference and meeting rooms, restaurant, lounge and cocktail bar were revamped.

Leaded windows have been sympathetically restored and repaired while the conference rooms have had the latest technology fitted, including 42-inch televisions.

Debbie is now looking to reposition the hotel in the four star sector and bring a new concept to the food and beverage menu.