1st Jan 2008 - 00:00
Abstract
An annual £5,000 memorial prize, in memory of Henry Edwards, former chairman of the Centre, Comfort and Friendly Hotel groups, has been established by his family.
The prize, to be used for travel to study specific aspects of the hospitality or tourism industry, is open to anyone aged 25 or under who is working in the hotel industry in the UK or studying for a qualification at a recognised college or university.
The method of entry is by an essay, not exceeding 1500 words, and an interview with a panel of judges. The subject for this year's essay is: 'The single innovation I would bring to the hotel industry and the benefits it would bring to the industry.'
The winning candidate will be expected to prepare a written report on completion of the project.
Henry Edwards was director and general manager of Grand Metropolitan Hotels in the early 1960s, leaving to establish Centre Hotels. Between 1965 and 1976, he built up a chain of more than 45 hotels, including many large new-build properties in London and the provinces.
Centre was acquired in 1976 by Coral Leisure (later Bass) and he then created Comfort Hotels and Friendly Hotels, the latter becoming the UK and European franchisee of the US-based Choice Hotels franchise.
Edwards retired in 2005 and passed away in September last year.