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

Chris Dodgson has joined the Morritt Hotel at 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.

"It is a very prestigious hotel which thrives on good service and the personal touch," 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."

Chris is married and has two sons, and the other love in his life in Sunderland FC, of which he is an avid fan.