SILVER service has taken on a whole new meaning at a York hotel as one of its staff has celebrated a quarter of a century in the job.

Cynthia Thompson, 51, of Huntington, York, is celebrating 25 years at the Dean Court Hotel this month.

She started working at the hotel in July 1978, and has spent all of her service there as a kitchen assistant.

Her long service was rewarded with a champagne celebration and the presentation of a gold wrist watch and large bouquet.

Hotel general manager David Brooks said: "Cynthia's loyalty and dedication is outstanding, and we're delighted to be able to reward her for her remarkable length of service at the hotel."

Cynthia said: "It's very exciting, and very emotional. I don't think I had thought when I joined I would still be here 25 years later. There have been some good times, and I'm sure there will be more."

Updated: 08:31 Friday, July 18, 2003