David Steele FTS, City Cruises' Sales & Marketing Director has won `Outstanding Contribution to Group Travel by an Individual' at the 2006 Group Travel Awards. As a long-standing supporter of The Tourism Society, we would like to congratulate David on his award. Steele, an accountant by profession, joined City Cruises in 1995, as Head of Sales and Marketing, bringing with him thirty years sales, marketing and management experience on the River Thames.

He has successfully introduced numerous products for the worldwide group market, such as the inclusive packages, which offer visits to London's top attractions in combination with a river cruise, breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea cruises, the multi- lingual commentary and a full version of the company website in Chinese.

Steele has also introduced many dedicated services for groups such as reserved seating on the Riverliners with table service and a dedicated group reservations team offering a one stop booking centre.

Gary Beckwith, Chairman of City Cruises said: `Steele has worked tirelessly for the company to provide quality products and services that meet the demands of the group market. His knowledge and contacts have been instrumental in increasing group sales and maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction'.

During his time with City Cruises sales have increased from £2 million to over £7 million, with the company winning many awards for its services.

Commenting on winning the award David Steele FTS said: `It is a real honour to have been recognised in this way by fellow industry colleagues and by our customers. This accolade is the culmination of over 10 years at City Cruises plc, dedicated to developing products and services for the group market'.

City Cruises operates sightseeing cruises, evening dinner cruises, themed package cruises, breakfast, lunch and tea cruises and charters as well as the Hispaniola, a floating restaurant and bar permanently moored on Victoria embankment.

Photo credit: Group Travel Organiser

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