Manchester-based Richardson Hotels of Distinction bought Eaves Hall Country Hotel in West Bradford, taking its portfolio to seven British hotels, mostly in Cornwall and Devon and all rated three or four-star.

Now the company has joined an elite band of hoteliers to earn the coveted Investors in People award for the way it treats its staff. The award provides a framework that helps organisations improve performance and realise objectives through effective management and development of their people.

Richardson group Human Resources Manager, Alan Wagstaff said: "As a group we have been investing time and manpower in developing our staff, steering them towards successful careers that can be forged in the hospitality industry as well as driving standards forward. That all seven of our hotels are now recognised as Investors in People is a great reward for the team and incentive to continue improving our best practices."