“In 2015 I walked into Wrexham Premier Inn and said “I want to work here”. I‘d stayed in plenty of Premier Inns around the country over the years and when the time came to leave the Forces, I thought ‘I want to work here because everyone’s always so happy!’. I was adjusting to life outside of the Navy. As part of the resettling scheme I chose Premier Inn and it only took a week to know I’d found a home. The week was lots of fun being with a mix of Housekeeping and Reception, although I preferred front of house as I loved speaking with guests. I only wanted part time because, technically, I’d retired.

I joined the Navy in 1978 as a Wren. I had 24 years’ active service, then spent 12 years recruiting for the Navy in schools and colleges all over Wales. Talking to young people about life in the Forces. I loved the life. It taught me independence, skills, leadership, organisation. The team laugh at me because I have to have my breakfast shifts here just so! And that’s the point - all your life skills will come into play in this business. Whatever you’ve done previously. I can use my skills here. I can encourage younger ones. If you’re a Petty Officer, Corporal, Sergeant, and you’re looking for a career, Whitbread offers promotions, progression – similar to what you’re used to in the Forces. You work hard, you’ll get rewards here."

Heath Reynolds served 23 years in the army working in Germany and carrying out training exercises across the world. He was also a member of the Special Forces and finished his career working in intelligence at Catterick.

He now works as a night porter for Premier Inn. Heath said: “I’m so proud to work for a business that acts as a force for good in the community. Being based near the garrison we have many guests from the armed services or who are families of army personal as well as retired personnel. Many of our team members also have connections to the armed forces, such as wives of the Gurkha regiment. "I really enjoy this as I feel I have an extra personal connection with our guests and team."