A STAFF member at a four star Lake District hotel has won a top national award - beating staff from 45 different hotels around the country.

Brett McCarten, 23, of the Old England Hotel and Spa in Bowness, scooped the prize for Fitness Instructor of the Year.

Brett, who lives at Kendal, who has worked at the hotel for almost a year, was entered into the hotel chain's High Achievers Award Ceremony 2014.

He won for delivering the 'highest quality exercise consultations' to members of the hotel’s health club.

Following his nomination, Brett was rigorously tested to be determined as the overall winner.

The awards, hosted by the hotel group’s deputy chief executive, Ruaridh Macdonald, celebrated those who have excelled in their duties over the last year.

Brett said: “I’m really excited to have won this top award after showing my dedication to the members’ experience and I aim to continue my efforts in giving our members the best health and training advice to hit their fitness goals.”

The category was competitive with eight entrants from across England and Scotland.

Each year, the hotel group nominates their best team members to find the highest achieving employee in a range of categories, including reception, restaurant and bar, and housekeeping.

Edward Cross, regional MD at Macdonald Old England Hotel & Spa, added: “I’m incredibly proud of Brett for his award win. He is a fantastic member of the team and it is great to have his hard work acknowledged.

“His commitment to offering members a first class experience is admirable and has undoubtedly contributed to the positive feedback the club has received.”

It was a double celebration for the hotel group, as they were recently named 'Most improved brand' in the competition.

Macdonald operate 45 hotels across the United Kingdom and ten resorts throughout the K and Spain. They also employ more than 4,000 staff.