Tucker is longest-serving member at Jamaica Inn
IT WAS a night for Herbert ‘Teddy’ Tucker, the longest serving member of the Jamaica Inn team and his 76 co-workers, who have given between 10 and 60 years of service to the Ocho Rios resort.
Tucker, who joined the resort at age 16, danced his way to the podium, celebrating what mistress of ceremonies, the affable Donna Haynes, described as “exceptional devotion, impeccable service and charisma”, the hallmark of Tucker.
Having earned a bar in his name, ‘Teddy’ as he is affectionate called, shared the spotlight with Barbara Marsh, who has spent 51 years at the hotel; Edward Earle and Donald Williamson, who, combined, have given 124 years of service in the housekeeping and dining room departments.
Nine persons were recognised for 30 years of service; 14 for 20 years, and 50 for 10 to 20 years.
“What we have here is an amazing and remarkable team of persons,” stated General Manager Kyle Mais during the recent 60th Anniversary Long Service Awards Ceremony.
At an event complemented by glitz and glamour, Jamaica Inn’s owners, Eric Morrow and his wife Belinda, staged an unforgettable gala event that concluded with a man currently topping the Jamaican charts – Wayne Marshall, who delivered a scintillating performance.
“Our achievement is not by accident. It is the hours of hard work, commitment and excellent service from our devoted staff why we are arguably one of the top hotels in the world,” added Mais.
His comments were augmented by Morrow, who took guests down memory lane, lauding the staff who he said stayed true to his family’s goals, providing the best guest experience in the process.
He charged the older members of his team to take responsibility for the younger ones, and passing on the knowledge they have garnered over the years.