The brand new Premier Inn at Hitchin Town Centre has been officially opened by Badminton Olympic silver medallist Gail Emms, who was born in the town. The hotel shuttled into action and officially opened its doors to the public marking an investment of £3.5million into the local economy whilst creating 28 new year-round jobs for residents of the town and the surrounding area.

Premier Inn’s new site, which features the hotel chains 60,000th room nationwide, was officially opened on Tuesday 20th October 2015 by former European Championship Gold medallist Gail Emms MBE, who was born in Hitchin and Premier Inn’s Chief Operating Officer Simon Ewins Human Resources Director, Amanda Brady. Hitchin Town Centre Manager Keith Hoskins MBE also opened the hotel.

To celebrate the opening of the hotel, some local school children from Fearnhill School, as well as local players from Hitchin Town F.C. attended the event, met Gail Emms MBE who cut the ribbon with Keith Hoskins and Simon Ewins. Guests at the event were welcomed into the brand new hotel and given a tour of the spacious rooms featuring Premier Inn’s luxurious Hypnos bed.

Gail Emms MBE, former European Championship Gold medallist, commented: "To come and celebrate the opening of Premier Inn's 60,000th room in Hitchin is absolutely fantastic. I was born and grew up just around the corner – not far from this hotel - and Hitchin will always be a town close to my heart. My intense training schedule over the years, and in more recent times becoming a mum, means I know the importance of a great nights’ sleep. Waking up feeling wonderful is so important for an impressive performance on and off the court, and it’s great that Premier Inn offer such comfortable rooms to relax in! I’m looking forward to checking this one out when I next come and visit family in the area!”