Caterer and Hotelkeeper – 7036

maid found guilty

A HOTEL maid is to be put on probation after stealing a Fabergé egg necklace worth £1,000 from a guest.

Portuguese-born Sylvia Freitascabraz was found guilty of stealing the necklace in May, after finding it wrapped in a towel at London's Berkeley Hotel.

She was put on bail until sentencing on 14 July, but the magistrate told her he did not consider a custodial sentence suitable. Natasha Wong, defending, said Freitascabraz was a first-time offender who took the necklace on impulse.

CHANGES AT HIMG

RAY Bigger, regional director of sales for Omni Hotels, has stepped down as chairman of the Hotel Industry Marketing Group (HIMG) after four years in office.

Replacing him is vice-chairman John Palmer, formerly director of sales and marketing for Steigenberger Reservation Service, who in turn is replaced by Hugh Taylor, head of marketing at Jarvis Hotels.

The position of president of the HIMG, which had lain vacant for five years, is to be filled by John Jarvis, chairman of Jarvis Hotels.

SAFETY GUIDE

THIRTY industry employers have contributed to a comprehensive new guide called Safety in Catering, published by the Hotel & Catering Training Company (HCTC).

The 128-page guide covers all aspects of health, safety and security pertaining to the hospitality industry, dealing with more than 40 pieces of legislation.

Safety in Catering costs £10.75 from the HCTC on 081-579 2400.

JUICE DISPENSER

THE juice dispenser pictured in Caterer's feature of 9 June (page 58) was supplied by Pasadele International (tel: 081-202 5495), not as stated.