Chris in line for top award

14 February 2008

A successful hotel owner from Stafford has made it to the finals of a prestigious national competition, beating hundreds of entrants from across the country.

Chris Lewis, Managing Partner of The Lewis Partnership, has been selected as a finalist of the BII 'Licensee of the Year Award' for the work he has done at popular town centre venue, The Swan Hotel.

Following a gruelling selection procedure; which included a written entry, site visit and detailed interview in London, Chris has been notified that he is in the running for the sought after title along with five other entrants.

The winner of the annual award will be announced at a glamorous awards evening, held by industry publication The Publican, at Grosvenor House in London on March 18th.

Upon hearing the news Chris said: "I am delighted, but obviously a little bit nervous. The whole selection process has been very intense so I'm just pleased to reach this far. "

He continued: "The Swan has achieved more than we ever hoped since we re-opened it nearly six years ago, which is a testament to the great team of staff we have working there. If I win this award the town will benefit from a lot of national press exposure, hopefully helping to put Stafford on the map."

Chris re-opened The Swan Hotel in 2002 following a comprehensive modernisation of the historic former coaching inn. Since the re-launch he has introduced a popular season of outdoor live music events and won national awards for their commitment to Responsible Drinks Retailing.

Last month Chris announced plans to redevelop the garden area of The Swan and to open a delicatessen in the former Three Cooks bakery on Greengate Street.

For further information about The Swan, visit www.thelewispartnership.co.uk or telephone 01785 258142.

For all press enquiries please contact:

Ben Sutcliffe - Director - Sponge Marketing Ltd

T: 01785 891900 M: 07966250434 E: ben@spongemarketing.co.uk