FAMILY HONOUR: Rosie Wallace (right) and her mother Jennie Deavin cradle their Dorset Tourism Award
The Edwardian Marsham Court Hotel stands on Bournemouth’s East Cliff and won silver in the Venue & Business Tourism category of this year’s Dorset Tourism awards.
Rosie said: “I am so proud of my staff, my family and especially my Mum, Jennie Deavin for making this award possible.
“Mum bought the hotel in 1987 when it was in a very dilapidated state and she has been the driving force behind its massive refurbishment and continuing success.
“Unfortunately she has had to step back from her busy role at the hotel this year, as she has cancer, so while this award is very much appreciated, it is also bittersweet.”
The Marsham Court is one of the few, remaining, family-run hotels in Bournemouth and was among 76 tourism businesses which entered the Dorset Tourism Awards this year.
A popular venue for weddings and local business meetings and conferences, the hotel saw its national conference business grow by 20 per cent last year and Rosie is currently targeting more new business from Scotland and the North of England.
Rosie continued: “It has been very emotional stepping into Mum’s shoes, but she has taught me well.
“She is now living in the hotel in a specially-adapted apartment and is there with advice and support whenever I need it.
“Mum was also presented with an honorary membership of the Bournemouth Accommodation and Hotel Association (BAHA) this year.
“This tourism award is also for her as we simply wouldn’t have won it without her.”
