A DARLINGTON spa boosted its global standing by sending staff on a visit to Hollywood.

Two of the managers at Rockliffe Hall Spa were recently invited to spend a week with skincare expert Dr Howard Murad.

Spa director Liz Holmes and treatment manager Victoria Lees flew out to the US to spend time at Dr Murad’s West Hollywood spa and wellness centre to find out more about his pioneering research.

During their visit, they attended workshops led by the renowned doctor, took part in classes and enjoyed beauty treatments.

Ms Holmes, said: “The personal invitation from Dr Murad was a real surprise and such an accolade as he is one of the world authorities on skincare. Obviously seeing his spa and visiting LA was exciting but also it has armed us with some incredible ideas for how we will take the spa forward in 2013.

"We’re constantly progressing so we can offer guests something new and different and this trip has certainly helped with our plans.”

The Rockliffe Hall Spa was recently named as one of the top 20 in Europe by the Sunday Times.