While the many endeavours of the housekeeper often go unnoticed by guests, it is often these very efforts that turn an average hotel into a truly commendable establishment. Guests are made to feel welcome and cared for by attention to the smallest detail and by those little extra touches that are the sign of an able and efficient housekeeper; and it has become apparent that AA recognised establishments employ many such valued individuals. Examples of taking housekeeping to another level include personally shopping for gifts for guests, translating housekeeping manuals into Polish and Spanish for foreign employees, organising and hosting events for local children’s charities to promote good housekeeping and even sitting up all night with an unwell guest despite being officially off duty!

Peter Birnie, AA Chief Hotel and Restaurant Inspector, remarks that, “We have been astounded at the volume and quality of nominations for this award, which reinforces our belief that there is a definite need for recognition of these outstanding individuals”. But only one can be named the Housekeeper of the Year however, and the AA will be awarding one individual who has on many occasions gone above and beyond the call of duty and whose conduct has been no less than exemplary.

The award will be presented to the deserving winner at their establishment at the end of the year.