Tourism Minister Arlene Foster has congratulated the Burrendale Hotel, County Club and Spa after they were awarded four-star status under a new NITB quality grading scheme.

During an event to recognise the achievement, the Minister praised the hard work and investment behind the newly refurbished hotel in Newcastle, County Down.

Arlene Foster said: "Northern Ireland's reputation for first class hospitality continues to be enhanced by investments such as this, and I want to applaud the tremendous work on the extensive refurbishment of these superb facilities.

"As well as boasting 68 ensuite bedrooms, the Burrendale Hotel can now offer guests everything from fine dining, excellent country club facilities, spa treatments and a hair salon, all within one complex.

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"Situated at the foot of the stunning Mourne Mountains, with a world-renowned golf course and tourist attractions nearby, the Burrendale Hotel is well placed to capitalise on the demand for quality, four-star accommodation."

Over the past two years, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board has worked closely with the Burrendale to ensure the hotel's £4million investment paid dividends through achieving an ‘excellent’ overall standard of accommodation.

The Minister continued: "This year we have been striving to strengthen Northern Ireland’s appeal as a tourism destination through the ni2012 campaign.

"Local tourism related businesses have the opportunity to step up to the mark and develop world class facilities that will deliver a top quality visitor experience, which will keep people coming back.

"Tourists drawn to Northern Ireland by international publicity are being encouraged to explore and enjoy the very many attractions that places such as Newcastle and the Mournes have to offer.

"This impressive development is part of the longer-term journey Northern Ireland is taking. It substantially enhances accommodation for visitors to a region that offers many excellent amenities for tourists in one of our most picturesque areas."

(CD/GK)