WORCESTER hotel The Fownes has appointed a new business development manager as part of an overall scheme of regeneration and further expansion into the corporate hospitality sector.

Linda Atwell, aged 45, originally from Aberystwyth, Mid Wales, joins the hotel from her previous positions at Wood Norton Conference Centre, near Evesham.

There, she was sales and marketing manager and for five years, organised wedding at the adjoining Wood Norton Hall.

Having begun her career with an international hotel chain, Linda has more than nine years experience in the hospitality sector, as well as a very strong background in the development of business.

Her new role will involve taking responsibility for raising awareness of the Fownes Hotel's services and facilities in order to strengthen and expand the businesses existing customer base.

Linda will be involved in increasing the revenue of the hotel by leading its expansion into the corporate hospitality sector as well as promoting the venue as a prestigious wedding location.

As part of her role, she will also liaise with existing customers as well as working to build new relationships with businesses from around the Midlands to promote the hotel, which is situated in City Walls Road and was originally a glove factory, as a conferencing location.

Her appointment forms part of a larger development plan for the hotel, which is currently undergoing extensive refurbishment with the aim of becoming a leading conference and wedding venue.

"I'm delighted to have joined the Fownes at such an exciting time for the hotel," said Linda.

"There are some fantastic improvements currently being made and the positive feedback we are receiving from guests is extremely satisfying.

"I look forward to helping The Fownes to move forward and become a leading hospitality venue."