SIX Ribble Valley hotel and restaurant businesses have benefited from a £5.6m workplace training scheme.

More than 30 staff from the businesses - including restaurant managers, food service staff, receptionists and administrators - went through the Welcome Host Gold training course.

The staff represented Mytton Fold Hotel and Golf Complex, Langho; Bashall Barn, Clitheroe; The Spread Eagle Inn, Sawley; Waddow Hall, Clitheroe; The Parkers Arms, Newton-in-Bowland; and Benedicts of Whalley, Clitheroe.

Funding for training was secured through the Lancashire Skills Support for the Workforce (LSS) programme which has already helped almost 3,500 of the county’s workers gain new skills and qualifications.

Helen Aldous, from The Via Partnership, said: “The training will allow greater benefits for the companies taking part, such as enhancing their customers’ experiences and exceeding expectations, as well as building repeat business and word-of-mouth recommendations.

"It will also ensure the businesses gain the competitive edge through excellence in customer service.”