.
Well, notwithstanding the usual mixture in the post of threatening letters, demanding money with menaces, denying people their basic human rights etc., from Hemel Hempstead, in fairness this season on the Park has been a very enjoyable one. There has been very little trace of the complete corporate indifference and awful customer service, which largely destroyed the park last year. Geoffrey has now taken over as Owners Exclusive Manager and the popular Joanne Milliken has returned and has the day to day responsibility of dealing with owner issues, entertainments etc. We also have another ’old face’ in Amy who spent a short time on the Park in the past and has now returned to take over as Complex Manager. We haven’t really met her yet but the general opinion among those who have is that this is another excellent appointment. It is really pleasant to have a friendly and enjoyable relationship with the Staff again in place of the bitterness and resentment that last year generated.
There has been a huge improvement in service standards and management interest in resolving issues and developing the goodwill that we all know should be standard on a Park like this. The efforts and enthusiasm of Geoffrey, Joanne and all the team in performing this ‘minor miracle’ is very much appreciated by us all.
Now if Bourne Leisure Head Office could only ‘buy in’ to the new relationship and stop denying that, by any stretch of imagination, or measure of customer service, last season was completely unacceptable, we may have a chance of moving forward together. (I won’t hold my breath on that one!)
We have had lot’s of excellent social events including Rock and Roll evening, the excellent Piano Man, Roman Hog Roast, Ascot Race night, and a very successful Carribbean night in Hardy’s which was a great example of owners and management working together to produce a terrific night for all. Some great work by designer in chief, Keith Ransome, and his willing band of helpers transformed Hardy’s into a tropical paradise for the night. Some of the earlier events weren’t as well supported as they could have been but is great to see more and more owners getting into the spirit of the themes and costumes. Well done everybody involved.
Also a big thanks to Joanne for organising the Proms in the Park night which, due to the very dodgy weather, brought out the true British spirit of enjoying ourselves in the face of adversity! (Come on, it wasn’t that cold was it?) I think we’ll always remember the ‘waltzing umbrellas and the intrepid Chariots of Fire ‘long distance runners’. A terrific night. It was a shame that, having done all the work, Joanne was unable to join us on the night.
Finally, we are now looking to the Owners Bowling Tournament in August. This is another joint venture between Park Management and owners with Ray Whittaker taking the lead at organising it. We hope he get’s lots of support. Thanks Ray.
In a year of big improvement it is always difficult to pick out individuals but all the people we have spoken to agree these people deserve an ‘honourable mention’.
Charlotte on reception - For her ever cheerful and friendly manner. A ray of sunshine.
Louise and Tracy in Hardy’s – What a difference from last years state of affairs.
Finally It’s nice to see Jon Wood (and his boots) back at work after his illness. His ever cheerful manner is another asset on the Park. Now if we can only get him to write things down…………….!
