Thistle Hotels Thanks Barnardo's Greater Manchester Volunteers

LONDON, Feb. 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Portland hotel by Thistle has organized a gala lunch event to recognize volunteers in Greater Manchester who keep children's charity, Barnardo's running.

Barnardo's corporate partner in Manchester, The Portland hotel by Thistle, organized the event for the 100-strong volunteer workforce as a celebration to mark the charity's vital work with and on behalf of children and young families in the area.

The Portland by Thistle, supported by the hotel's suppliers, provided the volunteers with a three course meal, while resident DJ, Jeff Dunning, kept the guests entertained as they enjoyed their celebratory meal.

John Ellis, head of retail development for Barnardo's, said: "Barnardo's volunteer workforce has given up over 100,000 hours of time to help vulnerable and disadvantaged children in Greater Manchester this past year, which is extraordinary. I would like to thank Thistle's The Portland hotel for making this kind gesture, which has helped us show our appreciation for their wonderful efforts."

Barnardo's volunteering roles include working in its shops, children's services and fundraising, with roles ranging from youth support workers to drivers.  Barnardo's volunteers are all ages and from different backgrounds and they give up their time for many different reasons - whether it's to keep their skills sharp while looking for paid employment, meeting new people or simply to 'make a difference.

Ian Corner, general manager of The Portland by Thistle commented: ''Barnardo's does a fantastic job assisting children and young families both in Manchester and across the UK. We're extremely proud to be supporting the charity and its volunteers for their continued hard work across the region.''

The event was also supported by the hotel's suppliers, including national catering butcher, Fairfax Meadow and foodservice company, 3663, along with wine provided by drinks supplier Matthew Clark.

About Barnardo's

Barnardo's in the North West provides vital services to thousands of children, young people and their families across Merseyside, Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Cumbria. Its 43 community-based North West services provide a practical and positive response to problems like abuse, poverty, homelessness and the challenges of disability.

Barnardo's believes in the potential in every child and young person, no matter who they are, what they have done or what they have been through. Barnardo's will support them, stand up for them and bring out the best in each and every child.

About Thistle

Thistle Hotels is part of Guoman Hotel Management (UK) Limited which operates hotels throughout the UK. Thistle has 33 UK Hotels, many in superb city centre locations, including a collection of Newcastle Hotels, Liverpool Hotels, Manchester Hotels and Asian Wedding Venues. With a selection of restaurants and a choice of excellent health and leisure facilities, Thistle has something to offer everyone.

Thistle Hotels is the first hotel group to achieve Hospitality Assured accreditation, across its entire UK portfolio. Created by the Institute of Hospitality, the Hospitality Assured standard measures the quality within customer facing businesses across the hospitality, tourism and leisure industry.

SOURCE Thistle Hotels