AN INTERVIEW WITH 2024 AA HOUSEKEEPER OF THE YEAR: CROW WOOD HOTEL & SPA RESORT

AN INTERVIEW WITH 2024 AA HOUSEKEEPER OF THE YEAR: CROW WOOD HOTEL & SPA RESORT

News Blog
Winner's Interview

“I was delighted and extremely proud to win the AA Housekeeper Award in 2024. So nice to be recognised for the job that I do.” Hear from 2024 AA Housekeeper of the Year Award winner: Paula Seddon from Crow Wood Hotel & Spa Resort, how it felt to win the award, and the influence it has on individuals and the industry.

How did it feel to win the AA Housekeeper Award in 2024?
Receiving the award was totally unexpected, but I was delighted and extremely proud to win; so nice to be recognised for the job that I do. Housekeeping has been my career for over 40 years, working my way through the department in some amazing establishments over the years. I am immensely grateful to the whole team at Crow Wood that supports me in all that I do. I was a finalist for the same award in 2010, so I was pleased to finally win the award last year.

Why are the AA Awards so important for our industry?
These awards highlight the great work that is done within the hospitality industry, recognising the individuals and hotels that have excelled. They are also something for everyone to aspire to.

How have things been for you in these challenging few years for hospitality?
Things have been difficult, as you can imagine, with costs constantly rising, finding staff prepared to take on such a physical role and, since covid, less individuals willing to commence at entry-level positions. Training and development of the team have helped with staff retention and wellbeing.

Apart from Crow Wood Hotel & Spa Resort, where is your favourite place to dine or stay in the UK?
We are so lucky in the North West of England with some fabulous places to eat and stay. I was lucky enough to stay and eat at Moor Hall in Aughton a couple of years ago, and this was outstanding. The Three Fishes in Mitton, The White Swan at Fence, Eight at Gazegill and Northcote are all among my favourites locally. Further afield, I was blown away by the menu at Plates in London.

What’s next for Crow Wood Hotel & Spa Resort, any future plans?
Last August, we completed a huge refurbishment and extension of the Woodland Spa and also an extension to Bertram’s restaurant. This year is about consolidation; however, we never stand still, as we will shortly be upgrading the hotel suites and then hopefully refurbishing the leisure club changing facilities.

Why should people attend the AA Awards this year?
The event itself is a fabulous evening to catch up with industry friends and colleagues, to celebrate not only the winners and those nominated for the awards, but everyone within the industry who all work so hard. This is an amazing night to let your hair down and enjoy the fabulous hospitality on offer.

Have you got a message for the winners and finalists on the night?
I would like to say a huge congratulations to the winners and all the finalists. This truly is a memorable night and a great achievement. Enjoy yourselves and celebrate all that you have achieved.


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