SIMON Mahon who revitalised the fortunes of York's top hotel by launching the ultimate staycation packages post-lockdown has been named general manager of the year.

Simon who joined The Grand in April last year took the crown at The Boutique Hotelier Awards 2021.

Judges said they were looking for a hotel chief 'who inspires, motivates and encourages their team, while remaining focused on maximising revenues and evolving and developing the quality of their property'.

They said Simon had introduced new business-driving initiatives over the last year, as well as programmes to support staff and the community.

"As a result, the hotel has consistently outperformed its city-wide competitors and this summer has seen the business achieve its top three revenue-generating months in its history."

New packages included B&B, romance, a family explorer package, York by bike, a gourmet offer, and one for chocoholics, along with efforts to attract more local residents to the hotel with various offers and making more of the Cookery School.

As a result, the hotel has recorded its busiest three months since opening in 2010.

Simon said he was 'honoured' to receive the award.

"While looking to introduce business-driving initiatives in such busy and unusual times, my team at The Grand have gone above all expectations and have enabled us to deliver exceptional results.

"My work to support employees and the local community is more important to me now than ever after such turbulent and uncertain times;

"I am as proud of my team as I am of achieving this award.”