One of the BHA's members, the independently-owned Rothay Garden hotel in Grasmere, has achieved a staggering 55 per cent increase in turnover in the middle of the worst recession in living memory.

Owner Chris Carss, who has been at the helm at Rothay Garden for nearly 20 years, has just completed the hotel's first year's accounts after embarking at the beginning of 2008 on a large scale renovation and redevelopment project designed to take the property to 4-star.

Rothay Garden, then a 25-bedroom three-star hotel, was closed for six months, during which it was transformed into the Lake District's newest four-star hotel. Opening in July 2008, showcasing new bedrooms redecorated to bright new chic designs, five brand new Loft Suites created and a new stylish bar, lounges and atrium-style reception area formed.

The £2.3 million development cost was a risk, especially opening in the midst of the recession, but today Chris is pleased to report that the gamble has paid off.

Chris explained: "We've been amazed by the high demand from the public for what we call "city chic in the country", and I'm especially pleased that so many of my loyal guests over the years have been back to appreciate what we've done, and to enjoy the hospitality here at Rothay Garden."

With five extra suites, this gave Chris and his team the challenge of filling 25 per cent more bedrooms than in previous years, and over all 365 days of the year. Chris wanted the Loft Suites to prove to be some of the Lake District's plushest hotel rooms, and his budget, presented to the bank for funding, was for an optimistic 45 per cent increase in turnover. Looking back now on the full financial year, Chris reports that even that target has been beaten, and a record 55 per cent rise in sales recorded.

Looking forward, Chris Carss is already planning the next stage of development at Rothay Garden, including the creation of luxurious Garden Suites, an extension to the 2-rosette Conservatory Restaurant and the introduction of contemporary outdoor leisure/spa facilities, including hot tub. "We ended 2008/09 at 71 per cent room occupancy against a target of 65 per cent," says Chris. "Our new financial year has already got off to a great start, with 89 per cent occupancy recorded last month - the fourth month in a row to go above 85 per cent - and October to Christmas is also looking strong."

Rothay Garden is an excellent example of an independent establishment proving that investment in quality will always have a positive impact.