Former chef appointed general manager of Dalhousie Castle

Former chef John Badely has been appointed general manager of Dalhousie Castle hotel, near Edinburgh.

He joins the 29-bedroom hotel with the two-AA-rosette Dungeon restaurant from the St David's Hotel & Spa in Cardiff, where he was deputy general manager.

An Acorn Award winner in 2009 when he was executive head chef at Rookery Hall, Nantwich, Cheshire, Badley has also worked in the kitchens at London's Savoy hotel, and for Gordon Ramsay.

Badley said he is looking forward to driving forward customer service and gaining four-red-AA-star recognition for Dalhousie Castle, which was acquired off a guide price of £5m by Robert and Gina Parker in March 2012 following the administration of Von Essen Hotels.

"I would really like to create an environment at Dalhousie where every part of our guests' journey has been meticulously honed to ensure that we provide the most memorable experience," he explained.

"With both UK wide and international appeal, to a range of business and leisure markets, my aim is to strengthen our position in the industry and ensure that Dalhousie is the first hotel people think of near Edinburgh."

Dalhousie Castle dates back to the 13th century and is one of four hotels owned by the Parkers, alongside Doxford Hall Hotel, Eshott Hall and Guyzance Hall in Northumberland.

Eric Kortenbach, group operations director for the collection said: "Dalhousie is a Scottish jewel and a key property in our portfolio. With its historic status and proximity to Edinburgh, we want it become one of the finest destination hotels in Britain. I know that John has all the credentials to take the hotel forward to the next level."

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