A new general manager has been appointed at Morecambe's famous art deco Midland Hotel.
James Eccles has taken over from Andy Lemm who has moved on to a new role within the Inn Collection Group, owners of the hotel on Marine Road.
James, 25, grew up in Bare, lives in Heysham and went to Morecambe High School. He has come up through the ranks at the Midland, starting off working in the hotel's Rotunda Bar seven years ago.
"I'm excited, it's going to be a big challenge but it's a site and a team I know well, so I'm looking forward to it," said James.
LISTEN to our interview with James Eccles
As for plans for the hotel's future, James said: "There are things in the pipeline, we are looking to tidy the place up a little bit, we are working on certain things in the building.
"My aim is to make sure we hit the guest experience and deliver great hospitality.
"We are really looking forward to having the Eden Project on our doorstep and having that partnership with them, I think it will be fantastic for the area and ourselves.
"We are taking a big role in the Steampunk festival (in Morecambe) this year and we are working with (local singer and promoter) Stuart Michaels on Rotunda live (music) sets this year, which we've launched. We are looking to try to build our own entertainment base.
"I am quite optimistic for the year. It's just about if the weather holds, and you never know with Morecambe. But I am optimistic and I think we will have a fantastic year."
The Midland opened in 1933, then reopened in 2008 after a period of closure and restoration by designers Urban Splash.
The Grade II* listed hotel was built by the London Midland & Scottish Railway and was designed by architect Oliver Hill.
The Inn Collection Group bought the hotel from English Lakes Hotels in 2022.
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