Big Night For Blythswood Square At Awards Ceremony

• 26 OCT 2010

The awards recognise the leaders in Scotland’s hospitality and trade industry including hotels, restaurants, bars as well as individual employees who have demonstrated outstanding dedication and achievements.

Peter Taylor, Chairman of the Town House Collection, which includes Blythswood Square, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award.  He commented: “It was a great privilege and honour to receive the Lifetime Achievement award.  The redevelopment of the Royal Scottish Automobile Club into Blythswood Square has been unbelievably challenging but there are no regrets as it has the makings of a world class hotel.

“The opening of the Spa last month was a significant stage in the overall project - following a considerable amount of hardwork from everyone involved.  I’m delighted to hear that early feedback on the Spa has been exceptional.

“Great hotels are not all investment in bricks and mortar - they are very much about investing in people -the team. On that point I would like to pay tribute to Hans Rissmann my co director and Managing Director of the company for his lead in bringing a great team together. Doing that in normal circumstances requires judgment and skill but with a half built hotel its more about courage and determination!”

Blythswood Square’s popular ‘Rally Bar’ won the award for the spirits bar of the year and head bartender Mal Spence also picked up the award for Mixologist of the year. 

During his time at Blythswood Square, the cocktail expert has created a range of acclaimed cocktail menus which have proved a big hit with the guests at the hotel.

Speaking about his award, Mal said: “It’s always an honour to receive any award, so I’m delighted to be selected as the mixologist of the year.  The Rally Bar at Blythswood Square has been a great place for me to let my imagination run wild and create cocktails with a bit of character and individuality – something a bit different for guests to enjoy.”