Barbara goes back on tour
ARETIRED tour guide is retracing her steps and returning to her old workplace.
Barbara Frost worked at the Midland for more than 20 years and was invited back to visit her old friends and colleagues.
She lives at Abney Court care home in Cheadle and has written three books about the 100-year-old hotel after leading historical tours around it.
Barbara, who met Prince Edward and Luciano Pavarotti, said: “I loved my job at The Midland, especially when I had enthusiastic tourists willing to learn from my knowledge.
“It was wonderful to go back to the hotel and reflect on all of those memories.”
General manager at the city centre hotel, Mike Magrane added: “It was great to be able to welcome Barbara back to the hotel.
“She was a key part of the hotel and its history and is missed by many of the team who worked with her over the years.
“Her tours were always so well received by not only her groups but the hotel guests and staff too.
“We hope she’s able to visit again soon.”
Barbara began working in hospitality back in 1967 when she started volunteering in several hotels.
She took a six-month training course in 1982 and became a Blue Badge Guide – the UK’s highest guiding qualification.
She joined The Midland in 1988 and began leading the historical tours.
In her time there she managed to meet a number of famous faces and dignitaries including Prince Edward during the 2002 Commonwealth Games and the Luciano Pavarotti.
Barbara moved to Abney Court in February and staff decided to organise her special trip after hearing her stories.
Care home manager Tracy Mitchell said: “It was wonderful to give Barbara the opportunity to reminisce about her time as a tour guide and see her friends at the hotel.
“Here at Abney Court, we support residents to continue their passions, and it was clear from when Barbara first moved to the home that she really cherished her time at The Midland where she spent so much of her life.
“The team welcomed her back with open arms and were thrilled she was able to enjoy a visit.”
For more information about Abney Court, on Manchester Road, call Pam Wilson on 0161 660 5713 or email pamela.wilson@careuk.com. late