A MAN whose track record includes managing a resort hotel in the US and a backpackers’ business in Australia has joined a hotel in Teesdale.

Chris Dodgson has joined the Morritt Hotel, in Greta Bridge, near Barnard Castle, as operations manager.

The 38-year-old has had a variety of roles in the hospitality business, including jobs at Fenwick’s in Newcastle and at the Beamish Hall Hotel, County Durham.

He said: “I am looking forward to putting my own stamp on the way things are done and taking the hotel to the next stage as a landmark centre for services such as conferences.

“Working somewhere like the Morritt is a an excellent move for me, and I have been made very welcome.”

Barbara Johnson, owner of the Morritt, said: “I am sure that Chris’ wide experience at all levels of the hospitality business will help the hotel grow.”