Marketing Aloud PR

07/09/2026

CASTLEBRIDGE HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT APPOINTS JANET ROBERTS AS 'DIRECTOR OF PEOPLE & CULTURE'

Castlebridge Hospitality is delighted to announce the appointment of Janet Roberts as Director of People & Culture, joining the company's Leadership Team as it continues its ambitious growth and expansion across the UK hospitality sector.

Janet joins Castlebridge from leading hospitality management company ‘Cycas Hospitality’, bringing with her a wealth of experience in people development, talent management, culture, employee engagement, and organisational growth. She will play a pivotal role in shaping and strengthening Castlebridge's people strategy, ensuring the business continues to attract, develop and retain exceptional talent across its growing portfolio.

Janet is an experienced People and HR leader with over 40 years in the hospitality industry. Her career began with studying Hotel Management and gaining hands-on experience across hotel operations before specialising in People, HR and Learning & Development. She has since worked across multiple countries, hotels, brands, and cultures, combining strong operational understanding with a passion for creating high-performing teams, developing leaders and building people-first cultures.

Janet believes that great business performance starts with great people, and that investing in culture, leadership and engagement drives better employee experiences, guest satisfaction, and commercial success. The appointment reflects Castlebridge's ongoing investment in its people and its commitment to creating an environment where colleagues can thrive, develop meaningful careers and feel genuinely supported throughout their professional journey. As the company continues to expand, Castlebridge remains firmly focused on maintaining the values and culture that have underpinned its success. The business is recognised for its collaborative, inclusive and supportive working environment, where team members are empowered to contribute, grow and make a positive impact.

Janet's leadership will further enhance initiatives focused on learning and development, wellbeing, diversity and inclusion, employee engagement, and career progression, ensuring that Castlebridge continues to be an employer of choice within the hospitality industry. Alongside its commitment to its people, Castlebridge is deeply invested in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles. The company actively supports sustainable business practices, works closely with local communities and partners, and remains committed to reducing its environmental impact while creating positive outcomes for employees, guests, clients and stakeholders alike. From supporting local suppliers and charitable initiatives to driving sustainability programmes across its hotels, Castlebridge believes that long-term success is built on responsible and purposeful business practices.

Craig Patterson, Managing Director of Castlebridge Hospitality Management, said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Janet to Castlebridge. As we continue to grow our portfolio and strengthen our position as a leading hotel management company, investing in our people remains one of our highest priorities. Janet brings outstanding experience, energy and expertise that will help us further enhance the culture that makes Castlebridge such a special place to work. Our success has always been built on the strength of our people. We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive and empowering environment where individuals can develop their careers, fulfil their potential and feel genuinely valued. Janet's appointment reinforces that commitment and will help ensure we continue to grow in a way that remains true to our values, our people and our purpose."

Commenting on her appointment, Janet Roberts said: "I am excited to be joining Castlebridge Hospitality Management at such an important stage in its growth journey. The organisation's people-first culture, commitment to development and focus on creating positive impact for its teams, guests and communities really resonated with me. I look forward to working with the talented Leadership team and all colleagues across the business to build on these strong foundations and support the next chapter of Castlebridge's success."

For more information about Castlebridge Hospitality please visit www.castlebridgehospitality.co.uk

20/07/2026

Thank you London Post for sharing details of the savings to be enjoyed at Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm this summer!

This summer, visitors can enjoy a tropical adventure at Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm and take advantage of great savings for the whole family. As part of the Government’s Summer Saver initiative, the Butterfly Farm is reducing VAT from 20% to 5% on admission tickets, helping visitors make th...

14/07/2026

Castlebridge Hospitality Champions “Hospitality Beats Cancer” with Fundraising Success & Ongoing Support

Castlebridge Hospitality is proud to reaffirm its commitment to supporting ‘Hospitality Beats Cancer’ who fundraise on behalf of Cancer Research UK. Hospitality Beats Cancer is dedicated to uniting the hospitality industry in the fight against cancer. Earlier this year, colleagues from across the business came together at the company’s annual awards evening, raising nearly £3,000 in a single night for this important cause.

The partnership holds deep personal significance for Castlebridge Hospitality. Across both hotel teams and central support departments, many colleagues have been directly impacted by cancer, whether as survivors themselves or through the experiences of family members and friends who have faced the disease. These shared experiences have driven a strong sense of purpose and solidarity within the organisation, inspiring teams to take meaningful action.

Castlebridge Hospitality continues to build a culture that not only supports fundraising efforts but also prioritises the wellbeing of its people. From providing emotional support to fostering open conversations, the business is dedicated to ensuring that colleagues feel supported during some of life’s most challenging moments.

The funds raised at the awards evening will contribute to the important work carried out by Cancer Research UK helping to fund initiatives that reduce the impact of cancer on people’s day-to-day lives through research, influence and information. The success of the event reflects the generosity and unity of Castlebridge teams, who consistently demonstrate their commitment to making a difference beyond the workplace.

Speaking on behalf of the company, Managing Director, Craig Patterson said, “Cancer has touched so many of us, personally and professionally, and that’s why supporting Hospitality Beats Cancer means so much to our teams. Seeing colleagues come together with such generosity and purpose is incredibly inspiring. It reminds us that, as a community, we can make a real difference. We are proud to stand alongside this cause and will continue to support our people and the wider industry in the fight against cancer.”

Castlebridge Hospitality remains dedicated to continuing its support for Hospitality Beats Cancer throughout the year, building on this momentum and encouraging further fundraising initiatives across its portfolio. By working together, the company hopes to contribute to a future where fewer lives are affected by cancer—and where those who are impacted feel supported every step of the way.

For more information about Castlebridge Hospitality please visit https://www.castlebridgehospitality.co.uk

Please find a photo of Samantha Criddle and Claire Cullen, Business Development Managers from Hospitality Beats Cancer presenting at the Castlebridge Hospitality Annual Awards earlier this year.

05/07/2026

Thank you Coventry Live for the great review about Hotel Indigo Coventry. A great honest account of the hotel!

https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/whats-on/reviews/stayed-top-ranked-coventry-hotel-34217734?utm_term=Autofeed&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwZnRzaAS26bxwZG9mA2V4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR6js8AEhLI8HiYQVJXqTQ7qQFOI07P4Kra_C4Q217lUVhgzFMinlO8P2dvYcQ_aem_C9AjutrRIlLHyw2I2Sy7IQ =1783236263

The venue is incredibly stylish and wears its city connections proudly

03/07/2026

SAVINGS TO BE ENJOYED AT STRATFORD BUTTERFLY FARM THIS SUMMER!

This summer, visitors can enjoy a tropical adventure at Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm and take advantage of great savings for the whole family. As part of the Government’s Summer Saver initiative, the Butterfly Farm is reducing VAT from 20% to 5% on admission tickets, helping visitors make the most of their summer days out. This is available for visits until 1 September.

Over the summer the Butterfly Farm will also welcome the return of the stunning floral butterfly and artwork. This will be displayed on top of the moon-ring in the outside gardens. The Butterfly Farm has collaborated with local arts & wellbeing charity ‘Escape Arts’, plus local artist Julia Snowdin on an exciting community art project combining plants, flowers and nature inspired artwork within a bespoke steel butterfly frame.

Visitors can also see a new arrival at the Farm - a beautiful emerald, green ‘Madagascar Day Gekko’, Phelsuma grandis, which is residing in the Rainforest Realm. Giant Day Geckos are native to Eastern Madagascar and primarily live in the canopy of tropical rain forests and in palms of coconut plantations. Day Geckos are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day. They mainly feed on arthropods including crabs, insects, spiders and scorpions, but occasionally eat sweet fruits and they like to lick honey. They get water from condensation that forms on leaves.

Visitors will also be invited to draw and display their favourite insect plus take part in daily ‘Lifecycle of a Butterfly’ and ‘Meet the Mini Beast demonstrations’ at 11am in the Discovery Zone. The demonstrations are hosted by the informative and friendly Education Team with opportunities to get close to unusual stick insects such as the Sunny Stick Insect.

Jane Kendrick, Marketing Manager at Stratford Butterfly Farm said, “Whether you're planning a family adventure or a fun-filled day out, now is the time to discover the wonder of tropical butterflies in a unique rainforest setting. We have so much for visitors to see over the summer holidays plus they can take advantage of our discounted admission prices!”

To see hundreds of spectacular butterflies, insects, reptiles, and spiders visit the Butterfly Farm from 10am to 6:00pm, last entry 5.30pm. Open every day of the week except Christmas Day. For more information including purchasing gift vouchers, admission prices and group rates, please visit the website at www.butterflyfarm.co.uk or telephone on 01789 299288.

Please find attached a photo of Andy and Coogan Middlebrook who designed and welded the frame. Also attached is a photo of last year’s floral Butterfly although this years will be planted differently.

29/06/2026

HOTEL INDIGO CHESTER - THE IDEAL PLACE TO STAY FOR CHESTER RACES!

Hotel Indigo Chester offers the ideal place to stay for visitors wanting to enjoy the races at Chester Races. Designed to reflect the city’s famous architecture and the oldest racecourse in the UK, the contemporary boutique hotel is just over 0.5 miles on foot or 1 mile’s drive to the racecourse. The hotel is also just a 2-minute walk to the shops, 1 minutes’ walk from the public car park and just 8 minutes’ walk from the train station.

The hotel offers a range of standard and deluxe themed race-rooms, along with suites with balconies. The 75 guest rooms are equipped with Hypnos beds, luxury Egyptian linen, spa-inspired bathrooms with premium toiletries by Muddy & Wild, Nespresso coffee machines, air-conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi and a 46” flat screen TV.

On site is ‘The Forge’ which has 2 AA Rosettes and is renowned as one of the best restaurants in the city. The 70-seater restaurant has a passion for British food, with an emphasis on wild produce and sustainability. The open kitchen cooks over wood and charcoal, using wild and locally reared meat, that is all aged on the premises. There is also a private dining room for an exclusive experience which can accommodate up to 12 people. The hotel also offers a full 24-hour room service, with full menu.

Established in 1539, Chester is the world’s oldest operational racecourse. Some of the most historic races are held at Chester including the Chester Cup, the Chester Vase, the Ormonde Stakes, the Cheshire Oaks and the Dee Stakes. A racecourse not only steeped in history but also renowned for its style, class and of course, inimitable racetrack. Chester runs 15 fixtures each season between May to October. Entry starts from just £10 per person on the Open Course and children aged 17 and under can attend free of charge.

Hotel Indigo Chester offers Bed and Breakfast rates for the races starting at £229. In-room race day packages with a bottle of prosecco and bucket of beers cost £65.

Scott Randall, General Manager of Hotel Indigo Chester said: “Make your Chester Races experience unforgettable by staying the night at Hotel Indigo Chester, conveniently located close by to the racecourse. After a day’s races, relax at ’The Forge’ and enjoy a first-class dining experience with great value food and amazing service. Then, retire to one of our luxurious guest rooms and wake up restored, with a continental or full English breakfast to set you up for the journey home”.

For more information about Hotel Indigo Chester please visit https://chester.hotelindigo.com/
For more information about Chester Races please visit: www.chester-races.com

11/06/2026

HOTEL INDIGO COVENTRY APPOINTS NEW HOTEL MANAGER AND HEAD CHEF

Hotel Indigo Coventry, operated by Castlebridge Hospitality, has recently appointed Madan Rathore as Hotel Manager and Hugo Correia as Head Chef.

Madan joined Hotel Indigo Coventry in April, bringing with him more than 20 years of hospitality experience and a proven track record of operational excellence across leading international hotel brands. Prior to joining Hotel Indigo Coventry, Madan served as General Manager at Ramada Encore by Wyndham in Leicester, where he successfully led hotel operations for over 6 years. Before this, he held the positions of Operations Manager with InterContinental Hotels Group and Director of Rooms at Holiday Inn Birmingham Airport.

In his new role, Madan will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of hotel operations, ensuring exceptional guest experiences while continuing to develop and support the hotel's talented team. He is widely recognised for his passion for customer service, dedication to team development, and sharp business acumen, qualities that align closely with Hotel Indigo Coventry's commitment to delivering memorable and distinctive guest experiences.

Hugo returns to Hotel Indigo Coventry following a successful period working at other hospitality venues. A highly professional, multi-skilled, and creative chef, Hugo has built an impressive career over more than 8 years in the hospitality industry. Prior to his appointment, Hugo served as Head Chef at Weston Hall Hotel. He also held the position of Senior Sous Chef with Niche & Bespoke and previously worked as Sous Chef at Hotel Indigo Coventry, making his return to the hotel a natural and exciting progression in his career. Earlier roles include Sous Chef at Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts in Birmingham.

In his new role, Hugo will lead the hotel's culinary team, overseeing menu development, kitchen operations, team training, and the continued enhancement of the food and beverage offering. His experience managing busy hotel kitchens, combined with his commercial awareness and operational expertise, will support the hotel's ongoing commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences.

Samantha Dunion, Cluster General Manager said: "We are delighted to welcome Madan and Hugo to Hotel Indigo Coventry. Madan’s extensive experience, leadership skills, and customer-focused approach make him an excellent addition to the team. We are confident that his expertise will help drive the continued success of the hotel and further enhance the guest experience. We are also thrilled to welcome Hugo back to Hotel Indigo Coventry as Head Chef. Having previously been a valued member of the team, he understands the culture and standards of the hotel and brings with him significant experience gained across a variety of hospitality environments. His creativity, leadership, and passion for exceptional food make him the ideal person to lead our kitchen team into the future."

Hotel Indigo Coventry opened in January 2024 after the completion of a multi-million-pound project. The hotel, which has 101 bedrooms, also features ‘Cogs Bar and Kitchen’ which celebrates the growers’ and producers in Warwickshire and the British Isles. Hotel Indigo Coventry is situated at Friargate, Coventry, West Midlands, CV1 2GN, UK. For more information, please visit https://coventry.hotelindigo.com

05/06/2026

SHAKESPEARE DISTILLERY'S JESTER RUM CROWNED WORLD'S BEST AT THE WORLD RUM AWARDS 2026

Shakespeare Distillery is celebrating its biggest international success to date after Jester Rum Cask Strength Sherry Expression was crowned World's Best at the prestigious World Rum Awards 2026.

Following last year's Bronze Medal success, the Stratford-upon-Avon distillery has gone one step further, with its latest limited-edition release progressing through every stage of the competition to claim the highest accolade in its category.

Crafted from scratch using the distillery's award-winning Jester White Rum, the expression has spent five years maturing in carefully selected ex-Bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks before being bottled at natural cask strength. The result is a rich and complex British rum showcasing exceptional depth of flavour and character.

The World Rum Awards are among the most respected global accolades in the spirits industry, judged by an expert panel that assembles some of the world's leading rum authorities. Following the initial blind tasting rounds in Norwich earlier this year, Jester Rum Cask Strength Sherry Expression was awarded Gold and named UK Style Winner in the Hybrid Still (5 Years and Under) category.

The rum then progressed to the World Rum Awards Finals in London on Tuesday 2 June, competing against category winners from around the globe before being awarded the title of World's Best Hybrid Still Rum.

Simon Picken, Director of Shakespeare Distillery, said: "Having our rum recognised by our peers on the world stage is a huge testament to the dedication and skill of our distillery team here in Stratford-upon-Avon. To be named World's Best among entries from across the globe is an achievement we're immensely proud of and one that reflects the passion, patience and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle we produce."

The Jester name takes its inspiration from Shakespeare's iconic characters – bold, playful and often scene-stealing. True to its name, this latest expression has certainly stolen the spotlight. Shakespeare Distillery remains one of a limited number of UK producers to create rum entirely onsite, from fermentation through to bottling.

Jester Rum Cask Strength Sherry Expression officially launched on 4 June and is available online at shakespearedistillery.com/shop, at Shakespeare Distillery's 1 High Street shop and at the distillery visitor centre. Prices start from £7.25 for a 5cl bottle and £48 for a 50cl bottle. For more information about Shakespeare Distillery please visit shakespearedistillery.com

15/05/2026

Thank you Stratford Observer for the front page coverage featuring news of the 100 butterflies released at Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm for Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday!

12/05/2026

CASTLEBRIDGE HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT CELEBRATES EXCELLENCE AT ANNUAL 5 SERVICE AWARDS BALL

Castlebridge Hospitality recently hosted its annual 5 Service Awards Ball* at the beautiful voco Wi******er Hotel & Spa, bringing together colleagues from across its hotel portfolio and central support teams for an evening of celebration and recognition.

Castlebridge Hospitality, based in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, is a privately-owned Hotel Management Company that manages Hotel Indigo Coventry, Hotel Indigo Bath, Hotel Indigo Chester, Hotel Indigo Stratford Upon Avon, voco Wi******er Hotel & Spa, Courtyard by Marriott Keele and Holiday Inn Express Campo de Gibraltar – Los Barrios.

The awards honour the outstanding achievements, dedication and hard work demonstrated throughout 2025. Highlights of the evening included the presentation of the Hotel Team Member of the Year and Head of Department of the Year awards, both of which are voted for by team members themselves.

This year’s event embraced a glamorous Great Gatsby theme, with special guest host David Ames, best known for his roles in Holby City and Hollyoaks. Celebrations continued late into the evening with live entertainment from popular band Levitate.

Guests also enjoyed an exceptional banquet showcasing culinary talent from across the Castlebridge portfolio. Each course was prepared by chefs from a selection of the group’s hotels and restaurants, including voco Wi******er Hotel & Spa, The Woodsman at Hotel Indigo Stratford-upon-Avon, The Forge at Hotel Indigo Chester, Cogs Restaurant & Bar at Hotel Indigo Coventry, and Kitchen21 at voco Wi******er Hotel & Spa.

The event supported and helped fundraise for the hotel management company’s designated charity, Hospitality Beats Cancer, raising nearly £1,500 through donations which were matched by Castlebridge Hospitality.

Craig Patterson, Managing Director of Castlebridge Hospitality Management, said: “The talent we have across our hotels and central support teams is truly outstanding. It was a fantastic evening and a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the dedication, passion and achievements of our people. Hospitality Beats Cancer is a cause very close to our hearts, and we are delighted to have supported and hosted them at the awards.”

The winners for Castlebridge 5* Service Awards, 2025 were –
• Hotel of the Year – voco Wi******er Hotel & Spa
• Central Team Member of the Year – Hanna Kallas – Cluster Business Development Manager
• Special Recognition Award – Emma Rainford, Cluster Revenue Manager
• Top Loyalty Enrolments Award – Jose Antonio Perez Asencio – Holiday Inn Express Campo De Gibraltar
• Outstanding Contribution Award -
o Tracy Daniels, Hotel Indigo Bath
o Kyle Costelloe, Hotel indigo Chester
o Martin Mansbridge, Hotel Indigo Coventry
o Roxanne Hopkins, Hotel Indigo Stratford-Upon-Avon
o Lydia Bentley, voco Wi******er Hotel & Spa
o Marta Dominguez Alejandre, Holiday Inn Express Campo De Gibraltar
o Carmen Lo Surdo, Courtyard by Marriott Keele
• HOD of the Year -
o Nic Hurd, Hotel Indigo Bath
o Tom Leaderson, Hotel Indigo Chester
o Helen Woodley, Hotel Indigo Coventry
o Kimberley Pugh, Hotel Indigo Stratford-Upon-Avon
o Lauren Doody, voco Wi******er Hotel & Spa
o Manuel Manez Pelayo, Holiday Inn Express Campo De Gibraltar
• Hotel Team Member of the Year -
o Megumi Tada, Hotel Indigo Bath
o Courtney Parker, Hotel Indigo Chester
o Roxana Magurian, Hotel Indigo Coventry
o Alona Symonova, Hotel Indigo Stratford-Upon-Avon
o Anna Krasnikova, voco Wi******er Hotel & Spa
o Patricia Gallardo, Holiday Inn Express Campo De Gibraltar

Castlebridge Hospitality Management remains committed to delivering outstanding results for hotel owners, exceptional experiences for guests, and meaningful career development for its people. For more information about Castlebridge Hospitality please visit https://www.castlebridgehospitality.co.uk