The Claremont Hotel has appointed Ian Stephenson as its new General Manager. Ian brings experience from over twenty five years working in the hotel industry to the job. His previous position was at the Royal Victoria Hotel in Llanberis, Wales. Ian started his training with Forte Hotels in the Northwest of England, and has since held a number of key positions at high quality hotels. These include managing the famous Prince’s Gate boutique hotel in Rotorua, New Zealand and overseeing a ?1million refurbishment of the Oaklands Country House Hotel in Lincolnshire. Ian has overseen more than five hundred weddings throughout his career, as well as catering for special events as varied as the York Races and the Snowdon Marathon. Ian commented on his decision to move to the Island and join the Claremont team: “The interview was the first time I had visited the Isle of Man, but I have long been a fan of Island life, having spent time in Guernsey and the Isle of Wight. The Claremont first attracted me because of the excellent reputation enjoyed by the owners, Sleepwell Hotels, and this was confirmed when I came to visit. The Hotel and its staff are very welcoming and have a programme of continuous improvement and maintenance of high standards.” Managing Director of Sleepwell Hotels Mark Wilson commented: “We couldn’t be happier with the new addition to our team. Ian has an incredible wealth of experience from all across the globe and shares our passion for impeccable standards. I am certain he will settle in well and be a real asset to us.” The Claremont has also recently celebrated being awarded a fourth star by Isle of Man Tourism. http://www.sleepwellhotels.com/hotels/isle_of_man/claremont/index.htm ENDS