Last updated 13:58, Monday, 01 December 2008

A businesswoman with 25 years experience in the health, beauty and fitness industry has been appointed spa operations manager at a Cumbrian hotel.

Jenni Paling will be in charge of the new £5m spa at Armathwaite Hall, Bassenthwaite, due to open in January.

Ms Paling started her career as a fitness professional and aromatherapist, before gaining managerial experience at the Sanctuary Ladies Day Spa in Covent Garden, London.

She was also involved in setting up and running one of Ireland’s largest spas at the Farnham Estate in Co Cavan.

She said: “The Spa at Armathwaite Hall is a really fantastic experience to be involved in.”

Carolyn Graves, director of Armathwaite Hall, said: “We are thrilled to have her as part of the team.”