GENERAL manager Paul Hindley and staff from the Best Western Cresta Court in Altrincham, kicked-off celebrations of the hotel’s 40th anniversary year, by sharing champagne and cake with staff and guests.

A year long programme of celebration events is taking shape to mark the December 3, 1973 opening date.

Plans include a gallery of photographs from the past 40 years, and a charity and community fun day to be held at Easter.

Following new ownership and investment in 2013, the hotel’s refurbishment project has seen the upgrade of its 140 bedrooms and a re-design of the reception area and lounge-bar.

This will shortly be followed by upgrades in the 11 conference and three event rooms, corridors, hotel exterior and the Dettoris restaurant.