COLLEGE students launched a takeover at one of the area's largest hotels last week.

The 18 students from Middlesbrough College took up a variety of roles at the 132-bedroom Thistle Hotel in the town as part of a skills-building project.

After a rigorous recruitment process the hospitality and catering students infiltrated all areas of the hotel including reception, the kitchens, restaurant and housekeeping.

Other students focused on preparing several of the 17 function rooms for large events, including a Rotary Club dinner.

Lynne Alderson, director of programmes at the college, said: “Middlesbrough College is always looking at ways it can help students increase their skills, making them more attractive to employers, so we were delighted when the team at Thistle Hotel Middlesbrough agreed to take part.

“It’s widely recognised that the skills and experience gained in the workplace determine how successful an individual will be in their career so this was a great opportunity for the students.”

Damon Roberts, general manager, said: “For some of the students it was the first time they’d experienced a real working environment but they rose to the challenge and I know the hotel team enjoyed sharing their skills and knowledge.”