Harrogate Borough Council's Turkish Baths and Health Spa have beaten off stiff competition to be selected as one of seven finalists in this year's British Beauty and Spa Awards for the 'best day spa' category.

 

Widely regarded as the 'Oscars' of the beauty and spa industry, the awards are independently judged but organisers say that gaining a position as a finalist is recognition of the excellence, innovation and professionalism displayed at the Turkish Baths and Health Spa.

 

Graham Holman, Manager of the Baths, says:  "The spa world has seen huge changes in the past few decades, but the core principle remains the same as always to promote holistic well-being in the visitor.  Our philosophy is to bring the timeless benefits of the core health spa ritual to a modern public."

 

The winners of the Beauty Spa Awards will be announced on 6 September 2009 at the Grand Lancaster Hotel in London.

 

As part of the shorlisting process, staff had to choose two of their 'hero' treatments for inclusion.  They chose the Placid Paradise Massage.  Inspired by the Turkish Bath's Persian atmosphere, this signature massage evokes the spirit of the Spice Route using cinnamon, cardamom and nutmeg blended with bamboo into Thai-style rice filled pindas.  They also chose the Turkish Delight Treatment, which includes a silk protein Sybarite Wrap.   ENDS

 

 

Although Turkish Baths were common in Victorian times, only seven remain which date back to the 19^th century.  Three of the seven, including Harrogate, are in England.  But none of them is as historically complete and in full working order as Harrogate's Turkish Baths.  Their importance lies in their decoration, elaboration and rarity.    

 

Full details about the Turkish Baths, including booking arrangements, are available at www.harrogate.gov.uk/turkishbaths or telephone 01423 556746.

 

Media contact:  Lynne Mee, Communications and Media Manager, 01423 556022 email lynne.mee@harrogate.gov.uk or mobile 07525 987921 or 07884 226409