THE Head Housekeeper at Rockliffe Hall in Hurworth has become one of just 18 people to win a coveted national diploma place.

Kirsty Whitwell, of Darlington, is one of just 18 hotel industry employees across the country to be selected to study for the internationally recognised Award from the Institute of Leadership and Management.

Upon completion after 12-months, Ms Whitwell, 30, will gain a Master Innholders Aspiring Leaders Diploma (MIALD).

Ms Whitwell, who joined Rockliffe Hall as Head Housekeeper in July 2013, said: “I’m so pleased to have been selected – it was an honour to even be asked by my employers to apply, so to win a place is fantastic.

“I’m passionate about hospitality and hope the skills I gain on this diploma will strengthen my knowledge and expertise.”

Ms Whitwell won the place on the 2016 intake following a rigorous interview day at Innholders Hall in London by four judges including Hilary Cooke, director of the Merlin Consultancy and MIALD course leader, who said: “The high quality of applications we received meant we had a difficult task arriving at our final decision and I would like to thank everyone who put forward an application for this year’s programme.

“It’s invigorating to see so many people who are passionate about the industry we work in and the Aspiring Leaders Diploma will help them to achieve great things as an individual and as part of a team.”