Hilton Gatwick brings in lobby security guards

Hilton UK & Ireland has stationed a 24-hour security guard in the lobby of the Hilton London Gatwick hotel, following the increased threat of terrorist attacks and heightened security at airports.

General manager Christopher Rawstron said security was an ongoing concern in an airport hotel but, at the moment, extra vigilance was needed.

"I've no reason to believe that we are a particularly high-risk business, but we can't take any chances," he said. "Guests and staff need to feel that they are in a safe environment."

Hilton has just opened a £26m, 233-bedroom extension at its Gatwick property. The hotel is now the largest airport Hilton hotel in the world, with 789 bedrooms and conference facilities for as many as 450 delegates.

Hilton currently operates 77 hotels in the UK and Ireland, with more than 15,000 guest rooms and 15,000 staff.

Source: Caterer and Hotelkeeper magazine, 20-26 February 2003