Tom Pyke named hotel manager at Balmer Lawn

Tom Pyke has been appointed hotel manager at Balmer Lawn hotel in the New Forest.

His appointment follows the departure of general manager Michael Clitheroe, who stepped down this month after nearly 10 years at the hotel.

It marks a promotion for Pyke, who joined Balmer Lawn as operations manager in 2023 and was previously general manager at Southampton’s Mustang Group of hospitality venues.

Posting on LinkedIn, Balmer Lawn wrote: “Tom embodies everything we stand for: kindness, a warm and smiley approach, unwavering commitment, and a determination that inspires everyone around him. His motivational leadership and dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for our guests and team make him a perfect fit for this role.

“We couldn’t be prouder to call Tom our hotel manager. His vision and passion will undoubtedly lead us to even greater heights.”

Balmer Lawn has been independently owned by Chris and Alison Wilson since 1997. It holds four AA silver stars and is home to a two-AA-rosette restaurant.

The Wilsons put the hotel up for sale for £12.5m in 2022 but later took the property off the market and it was refurbished last year.