Rachel scores tourism prize (From Warrington Guardian)

Rachel scores tourism prize

A MATURE student from Warrington has received special praise from judges at an awards event for the tourism industry.

Warrington Collegiate student Rachel Gallagher, aged 32, was awarded first prize in the 'Most Promising Tourism Student' category.

Speaking about why she won the award, judges commented that: "As a mature student returning to education after bringing up a family, Rachel has illustrated her commitment to training and education to enable her to succeed in the tourism industry."

The awards, which were held at the Mere Golf and Country Club, in Knutsford, were open to all organisations involved in the Cheshire and Warrington tourism industry.

Now in its fourth year, the CATS, Cheshire Awards for Tourism Skills, were launched to tackle the shortage of skills within the tourism industry.

The awards were developed to promote and recognise talent and commitment among employers and encourage them to invest in training and development.

Other Warrington CATS award finalists included, Wilfreo Giron, for 'Commitment to Industry,' Janet Macdonell, for 'Excellence in Customer Service' both from Hanover International Hotel, Stretton, Debbie Mullen, Village Hotel, Centre Park, Warrington, for 'Unsung Hero' and The Old Town House, Buttermarket Street, Warrington won 'Tourism Team of the Year.'

Liz Davis, executive director of the Learning and Skills Council for Cheshire and Warrington, said: "I was extremely impressed and encouraged by the quality of the nominations to this year's CATS awards."