The driving force behind Acorn Executive Cars, Avril Healy, is a shining example of just what it takes to win a Pride in Ashford and Tenterden Award.

Avril, 49, from Shadoxhurst, earned the Transport Employee of the Year award at the 2010 ceremony and now the hunt is on for the area’s leading customer service people for 2011.

“My job involves taking bookings for weddings, airport and school runs, running the business and driving – lots of driving,” said Avril, who has worked in the business for six years.

“I love my job. I used to work in the NHS and that’s where I developed good people skills. Good customer service is important as it makes sure the customer comes back, but it is also important for my own job satisfaction.”

The variety of work is also something that Avril enjoys, with two particular areas giving her the most enjoyment.
“Weddings are my favourite,” she said. “We spend a lot of time preparing the cars, making sure ribbons and flowers are a perfect match for the bride’s choice of colours. It is such a happy time and we know that our attention to detail makes all the difference.

“School runs are also very rewarding. Many of the children we drive have special needs and we try hard to ensure each of them really enjoys their journey to and from school.”

Although she likes all her work Avril sometimes finds airport runs frustrating, especially when incoming flights are delayed.

The Pride Awards are part of the Celebrating Kent initiative led by Visit Kent raising awareness of the importance of leisure, tourism and hospitality businesses. The industry contributes more than £2.5 billion each year to the county economy and supports more than 50,000 jobs.

If you know someone who you think gives exceptional customer service, then the deadline for the 2011 Pride in Ashford and Tenterden Awards nominations is February 28.

For further information, or to ask for a nomination form, contact Visit Kent on 01622 696936, email: celebratingkent@kent.gov.uk or pick up a card from Ashford Tourist Information Centre at 18 The Churchyard, Ashford, 01233 629165/tourism@ashford.gov.uk or The Gateway in Tenterden, 0845 824 7202/TenterdenGateway@kent.gov.uk.

You can also nominate online at www.visitkent.co.uk/prideawards

Caption: Avril and Michael Healy (centre) collect their award from Cllr Gerry Clarkson and Kirstyn Read

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