The body found at the scene of the fire which broke out at the Majestic Hotel, Harrogate, two weeks ago has been identified as that of Nigel Butterfield, 41, who had worked at the property for nearly 20 years as a kitchen porter.
"Nigel was a loyal and friendly person and will be greatly missed by everyone at the hotel," said general manager Vince Johnson. "He was very reliable and was part of the fundamental backbone of the hotel. We are extremely sad to have lost such a well-loved and hardworking colleague."
Some staff rooms, guest bedrooms and the dining room were damaged in the blaze, which broke out in the early hours of the morning of Wednesday 5 May. Around 25 staff and 130 guests were led to safety after the emergency services were called to the four-star, 170-bedroom hotel, which is operated by Barceló UK.
The hotel has been closed since the fire and will remain closed until Sunday 6 June when the situation will be reassessed. A police investigation into the cause of the blaze is continuing.
"We will continue to work closely with hotels in the Harrogate district to offer alternative accommodation wherever possible," said Johnson. "We are grateful for all the help and cooperation we have received from everybody in the community."
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By Janet Harmer
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