After a busy festive season, January saw an evening of celebration for our team during belated Festive Staff Parties. The events provided a chance to relax after Christmas, express our gratitude to every member of Elite Hotels family for their hard work during 2025, and announce our annual employee awards.
This year, the hotel teams were offered the opportunity to vote for their colleagues with nominations providing inspirational explanations for their choices. Here are our 2024 honourees...
Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club
Employee of the Year - Bartek Szepelak, Banqueting Sous Chef (Kitchen Brigade)
Bartek has been an integral part of the team at Ashdown Park for many years. Since starting as a kitchen porter his work ethic has never changed. He constantly helps everyone when he can, and is now our Banqueting Sous Chef here at Ashdown Park which shows his commitment to growing with the business. Every hotel deserves a team member like Bartek.
The Grand Hotel
Employee of the Year - Lillie Hough, Food & Beverage Assistant (Lounge)
This employee started with us back almost three years ago. Since then, we have watched her grow and flourish in their role. She is a dedicated member of the team, always willing to assist and take on extra responsibilities. The team said 'Lillie is a credit to the hotel and is a lovely bubbly person. She always goes above and beyond and thoroughly deserves this award'.
Tylney Hall Hotel & Gardens
Employee of the Year - Tina Flahive, Floor Supervisor (Housekeeping Department)
This individual has shown exceptional dedication to Tylney Hall, supporting their department through both the highs and the lows. They have taken extra responsibility and have consistently been a positive force within the team. Always with a smile and a commitment to giving their best, Tina, you are a true credit to us all