THE head housekeeper at a Helmsley hotel has been named runner-up in the prestigious AA Hospitality Awards.

Alison Richardson of the Black Swan was recognised for her 31 years of service, having risen through the ranks from chambermaid to head housekeeper.

Alison said: “Just being named as a finalist was a great honour in itself. The awards ceremony was great, and I even got to meet Claudia Winkelman.”

The hospitality award for ‘Housekeeper of the Year’ aims to showcase outstanding commitment and performance.

Peter Llewellyn, general manager of the hotel, said: “We’re absolutely delighted. To come runner-up amongst such an elite group of housekeepers is testament to the hard work Alison puts in daily. We’re all so proud of her.”

Alison’s mother, Jean, worked at the hotel for 57 years, receiving an MBE for her service to the catering industry in 2001.