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Five-star north east resort boosts senior team

A luxury five star hotel, golf and spa development in the North East has made another major appointment to bolster its team ahead of opening later this year.

Rockliffe Hall, the multi million pound development in the picturesque village of Hurworth, near Darlington, has appointed Nicola Swinden as senior conference and events co-ordinator.

Nicola, who now lives in Darlington, brings with her over 17 years in the hospitality industry having worked in a number of roles from restaurant management posts to wedding co-ordinator and senior events co-ordinator for Marriot Hotels.

The 33-year-old has been watching the progress of the development and has been keen to get on board for some time. She commented:

“I’ve been watching the development since moving to the area one year ago. I soon realised that it would be the opportunity of a lifetime to be involved with such a high end resort. Once Wendy Benson was on board as sales and marketing director I knew I had to put myself forward and become a part of something special.

Following the recent opening of the clubhouse and the golf facilities at Rockliffe, Nicola has hit the ground running. She is now responsible for organising a variety of events in the clubhouse’s Grassholme suite, including conferences, functions and special events and was instrumental in the successful summer ball which took place earlier this month.

Nicola’s experience in the industry coupled with the already strong team at Rockliffe will no doubt stand the resort in good stead, she concludes: “We’re all committed to successfully growing Rockliffe Hall by hosting events that will earn us an international reputation for standards and service.”

Originally from Sheffield, Nicola lives with her partner Jonathan and is a keen chef at home, and has even started to grow her own vegetables. She is keen to learn more skills from Rockliffe Hall’s head chef, Martin Moore.
Nick Holmes, managing director of Rockliffe Hall, commented on Nicola’s appointment: “I have no doubt that Nicola will assist us with our aim to become the destination resort for the North East. Now that the golf operations are fully operational she has the opportunity to perfectly position our high service and standard levels.”

Rockliffe Hall’s golf operations, which include a 7,857-yard golf course, golf academy and new 50,000sq ft clubhouse, opened its doors last month, while the Spa and hotel operations will open later in the year.

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