A LOCAL Day Spa is celebrating yet again this week after they were crowned Day Spa of the Year at the industry’s most prestigious awards ceremony, the British Beauty & Spa Awards held at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London last week.

Chessgrove, based near Hanbury, picked up the accolade at an event known as the trade’s ‘Oscars’ and which both recognise and reward excellence, innovation and professionalism within the beauty sector.

Health & Beauty Salon magazine launched the awards in 1997 and they remain the most prestigious awards in the industry, with the judging panel made up of key independent figures and a representative from each of the sponsoring companies. The Judging comprises a spa presentation and visits from mystery customers.

Chessgrove competed against five other finalists in The Day Spa of the Year category, sponsored by Paynot Paris. The judges concluded – “The Chessgrove entry was exceptional, showing great attention to detail whist also reflecting the passion and warmth of the spa.”

Located in a sympathetically converted threshing barn on a traditional working farm near Hanbury, Chessgrove is privately owned and prides itself on its treatments and packages which are offered on a personal and intimate scale.

Chessgrove couldn't believe it when their name was read out at the ceremony.

Director Eve Wood said: “This has been a fantastic year for Chessgrove, this is our second industry award in as many months and to be crowned Day Spa of the Year 2008 is a massive achievement, it's just absolutely brilliant!”

Last month Chessgrove scooped another award – the Elite Special Commendation of the Year Award 2008 for their excellence in customer service and strong environmental credentials.

They received their prize at The Skincare Sanctuary’s Elite Awards which took place at a gala dinner held at The Castle Hotel in Windsor.