RURAL HOTEL IS STAR STRUCK BY AWARD

6th May 2008

Staff at the Macdonald Bear Hotel in Woodstock are celebrating this week after securing four AA stars - the only property in rural Oxfordshire to gain this stamp of quality.

Awarded annually, the prestigious accolade was made in recognition of the hotel's exceptionally high standards of hospitality, service, food and comfort and the overall investment in the property over recent years.

Under the leadership of Beverley Atkinson General Manager and Paola Cassotti Operations Manager, the team developed a four star strategy and 18 months later their hard work and dedication has paid off.

Beverly Atkinson commented: "I am so proud of everything that the team has accomplished over the last 18 months. During this time we have added a concierge service, moved the Reception area and implemented a turndown service as well as invested in our passionate employees through bespoke training programmes. Their enthusiasm and dedication has enabled us to consistently meet and exceed the high expectations of our customers.

"As a hotel, and indeed as a group, we continue to source the finest seasonal ingredients, including local products such as fruit and vegetables to minimise food miles. It is this attention to detail in all areas of the business that has earned us this award, in what is a very special year for the AA as it celebrates its 100th anniversary of Hotel Services."

Other recent achievements at the hotel include Macdonald Hotels and Resorts being named AA Hotel Group of the Year 2007-08 and The Bear being recognised as Quality Hotel of the Year within this award in October 2007.

The hotel reception has just been awarded the status of 'Centre of Excellence' meaning all new Macdonald Hotel receptionists in the region will be trained at Woodstock to ensure the high standards continue across the company.

If you require any further information or images please contact Beverley Atkinson General Manager on 0844 879 9143 or via gm.bear@macdonald-hotels.co.uk.'