Stansted Airport’s Employment and Skills Academy is offering free places on a vocational training programme for young people aged 16-18 who are not in employment, education or training.

Students will study for The Award in Retail Knowledge which covers a range of subjects including retail, customer service and sales. The course will also involve modules on preparing for employment, working as part of a team, CV writing and interview techniques.

Anita Garrard, manager of the Stansted Employment and Skills Academy, said:

“This is one of the only courses of its kind in the area, so the course is a brilliant opportunity for young people wishing to gain a qualification and then maybe embark on a career within the airport retail industry or find work in their local area.

“Stansted Airport is the biggest single site employer in the East of England, with around 11,000 people working here. It’s a wonderful place to work and has many opportunities for young people looking for a rewarding career.”

Students from Essex, Suffolk and Hertfordshire will also receive a free £50 travel card for travel to and from the airport to attend the course.

Places on the four week courses, which run from Monday to Thursday throughout the summer, are limited. For more details, or to book a place, please call 01279 661007, or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

FC Barcelona pictured arriving at Stansted Airport late last night (24 May) ahead of their Champions League final clash with Manchester United on Saturday.

Photograph taken by FC Barcelona

Regency Park Hotel – Under New Ownership

A new chapter in the future of Regency Park Hotel has begun. On Thursday 282011 the hotel came out of administration after 10 months of uncertainty.

Regency Park Hotel is conveniently located between Newbury and Thatcham and just10 minutes from the M4 and 45 minutes from Central London.

The new Owners are delighted to announce the appointment of Gary Ockwell as General Manger at the hotel. Gary has lived in Thatcham for the last 11 years andcomes with a wealth of experience having worked as General Manager at the FoleyLodge Hotel (now The Vineyard at Stockcross), Elcott Park and for De Vere Venues.

Gary said “I look forward to developing the business with the fantastic team at the Regency Park Hotel and ensuring that it becomes the hotel of choice, for the residentsand businesses of Thatcham and the surrounding areas. I am delighted that the new Owner has already pledged future investment in the hotel, team and local community.”

The hotel boasts 108 contemporary and stylish bedrooms, outstanding conference andwedding facilities as well as a stunning health club and spa. The excellent facilities andfree parking, coupled with exceptional service makes the Regency Park Hotel the ideal hotel for business or pleasure.

The Regency Park Hotel joins The Manor of Groves Hotel, Golf & Country Club in Sawbridgeworth and Shendish Manor Hotel and Golf Club in Apsley near Hemel Hempstead.

Marisa Willingham – Group Strategy and Development Manager said “We are delightedto welcome The Regency Park Hotel into one of the most dynamic and forward thinkingindependent hotel groups in the Home Counties.”