A HELENSBURGH hotel has thanked its local clients for their support after it was recently recognised at a major awards ceremony.

Riva, on West Clyde Street, saw off competition from nine other finalists and was named ‘boutique hotel of the year’ at the Scottish Hospitality Awards.

Having only been trading for two years, the Riva team was “very surprised” to scoop the top prize.

General manager Myke-Louise Bromwich said: “We had no expectation of winning it. We were hopeful obviously, but it was a massive surprise.

“We were all sitting discussing who the winner was going to be, so when they actually announced it was us we were a little shocked.

“For the team that we have here, it’s a massive morale boost. It shows that everything they’ve done over this period has been worth it.

“Recognition for myself from the owner is fabulous, but to be actually recognised like this is priceless for my team.”

The winners were announced at a ceremony held at Glasgow’s Marriott Hotel.

Businesses from all corners of Scotland were nominated across 32 categories.

Helensburgh and Lomond was also represented by Rosneath Castle Park, which was nominated in the ‘best caravan park’ section.

Despite missing out on the top prize to Perthshire’s Blair Country Park, the business was recognised as a runner-up and was highly commended for its services.

Sarah Quibell, who runs the park with husband Richard, said: “We were really chuffed with the nomination.

“It was a great feeling and it makes everything worthwhile when you’ve put so much hard work in.

“When people were accepting their awards, they were very humbled by that fact that we’re all in the same boat and we’ve all had a tough couple of years.

“A massive thank you goes to all the customers who took the time to vote for us and get us shortlisted, and to our wonderful team too - without them we wouldn’t have gotten as far as we did.”

Riva’s Myke-Louise believes the area’s success at the event is well deserved.

She added: “It’s local people who run these places – they’re the ones living and breathing the businesses.

“This kind of recognition says a lot about the people who live here.

“Our feedback is always about how welcoming and kind the staff are and how they go the extra mile.

“I think it’s massively important for the area to know that we’re representing Helensburgh, as well as ourselves.”

The full list of winners from the event is available at bit.ly/3OIQa2n.