Hotel charity heroes recognised for work

Hilton general manager Nick Taylor, Danielle Barnett, High Sheriff of Lancashire John Barnett and Variety committee chairman David Jones with the new plaque in the Hilton hotel. Photo credit: Dave Nelson

Blackpool’s Hilton Hotel has raised a quarter of a million pounds for local charities in recent years – with a 79-year-old former staff member leading the efforts.

Now Variety, The Children’s Charity, has unveiled a special plaque at the hotel to recognise its generous contributions to good causes.

Doreen Haywood, 79, was presented with a royal honour for her tireless commitment to raise money for charities supporting disadvantaged and disabled children in the seaside resort.

Variety has, in recent years, funded projects on the Fylde coast including a £30,000 state-of-the-art sensory room at Highfurlong School, wheelchairs for children with physical disabilities, equipment  for young people with life- limiting conditions, and a Sunshine Coach for Park School.

David Jones, chairman for Variety’s Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde committee, said: “It’s been my absolute pleasure to present this plaque to Nick Taylor and the team at the Hilton Hotel Blackpool.

“The work they have done to help children that have disabilities or are disadvantaged in life, through no fault of their own, is simply tremendous.

“Individuals like Doreen Haywood are an inspiration to us all.”

The celebration also saw the High Sheriff of Lancashire, John Barnett MBE DL, present Ms Haywood with a special honour – his first certificate of commendation given during his year in office.