A FORMER coaching inn which is now a boutique hotel boasting its own heated outdoor pool is in the swim at The Press Business Awards.

The Feversham Arms Hotel and Verbena Spa at Helmsley, which has entered the Retail, Tourism and Leisure category, says it is committed to delivering consistently excellent hospitality and ensures its team members “are all driven by a passion to exceed customers’ expectations, with the team regularly briefed on the ‘Fev Culture’ and our values”.

All team members attend an induction which outlines AA standards and what is expected of them, leading to and understanding “the focus of the Feversham and emphasis on customer service.

“In addition to this we carry out a red star training workshop each year, which highlights the importance of hospitality in retaining four red stars for the hotel”.

The Feversham also operates a ‘Little Star’ feedback scheme for guests to nominate a staff member for exceptional service.

It is an independent, boutique hotel which was purchased by its present owners in 2008, with 33 individually designed bedrooms and suites. “The USP of the Feversham is without doubt its heated outdoor swimming pool. The unexpected appearance of its shimmering waters in the enclosed central courtyard at the heart of the hotel is unrivalled in any other Yorkshire guesthouse,” it says.

“Our Verbena spa offers a range of relaxing and indulgent Temple Spa treatments, with access to an aromatherapy room, salt inhalation chamber, saunarium, monsoon shower and foot spas, as well as an outdoor Jacuzzi and the aforementioned pool.”

Its restaurant was relaunched at The Weathervane in February.