A SPA hotel has reopened its doors for the first time since lockdown.

Staff at the Malvern say preparations for the reopening have been extensive with the safety of staff, members and guests a priority.

More than £100,000 has been spent on a mixture of safety measures and getting the spa ready for reopening.

The Malvern has opened the restaurant, the outside pool area and spa treatments, with the exception of facials).

And next week the gym and indoor pool facilities are also set to reopen with facials back on the agenda for the week after, all in line with government guidelines.

Huw Watson said: "The Covid-19 pandemic has been catastrophic for the hospitality industry and unfortunately, like many others we have incurred significant losses to the tune of around £1 million pounds.

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"We’ve spent £25,000 alone on state of the art equipment to ensure the safety of our staff and guests.

"Luckily, we are in a very strong position.

"Pre-Covid, business was booming so we had plenty of reserves to help us weather this storm.

"Our loyal customers have been exceptionally supportive. It’s vital that when our guests return they can relax and feel safe – that’s what the spa experience is all about."

Harriett Baldwin MP for West Worcestershire was given a tour of the spa hotel yesterday, ahead of the opening.

“Malvern is famous for its water and spa treatments and it is great to see Malvern’s premier spa opening up its doors to customers this weekend," the MP said.

“I’ve had detailed conversations about how the owners can welcome customers back in a Covid-safe way and I have been particularly impressed at the investment that they have put in to make it as safe as possible, including a very impressive temperature-checking entry system.

“The government has today taken further steps to allow more businesses to operate as fully as possible and as we encourage more people to return to their favourite activities. It’s great to see how much planning has gone into ensuring they can enjoy summer safely.”