London hotel manager Clarisse Abbey-Blackmore has been awarded the title of Front of House Manager of the Year at the 2013 Hotel Cateys.

Clarisse, who works at the Crowne Plaza London Docklands, impressed the 90-strong judging panel to beat off competition from across the country. She was nominated for the award by her general manager Joanne Taylor-Stagg and revenue manager Kirsten Cameron, who praised her tireless approach to ensuring every guest has an excellent experience at the hotel.

Commenting on her award, Clarisse said: "I felt extremely humbled to be nominated for a Hotel Catey and utterly thrilled to have taken the top prize. During my 10 years with RBH, I have been mentored by great mangers and supported by superb teams who have worked tirelessly to delivery great service. Without their support, I wouldn't be where I am today, so I would like to dedicate this award to everyone who has provided me with great advice, wonderful memories, and most importantly, lasting friendships."

Clarisse has been working at the Crowne Plaza Docklands for 10 years and has been in the hotel industry for more than 14 years. She has previously won internal hotel awards but this is the first time she has been nominated for a national title.

Currently in its seventh year, the Caterer and Hotelkeeper's annual awards celebrate hotels, hoteliers and hotel employees across the UK.