A Debenhams star employee is going to Alton Towers next month but lingerie expert Judith Dewerson won’t be taking the plunge on one of the daredevil rides – she’s opted for a more soothing day out.
The sales adviser from Waunarlwydd, Swansea, has just been voted Employee of the Year by managers at the flagship store in the city’s busy Quadrant Shopping Centre.
And as part of her special package of prizes Judith will spend a day at the UK’s Thrill Central but she’s steering well clear of rides like Thirteen, Oblivion and Nemesis and opting for a relaxing massage instead.
Judith, 53, originally from Worcester, has worked in Debenhams in the Quadrant Centre for nine years and she said: “I could have gone for a day in the theme park or the water park but I’ll be happier with the spa treatment.
“The grounds look nice though so I will probably have a walk round and watch the people on the thrill rides but that’s as close as I’ll get to them.”
She will spend the day at the plush resort before enjoying cocktails and a gala dinner with top Debenhams staff and winners from stores all over the country, followed by a beach party with breakfast after an overnight stay.
She will also receive £200 in Debenhams vouchers and says she is looking to buy something to keep to remind her of her success this year – she has also twice been Employee of the Month at the Swansea store.
Debenhams Swansea Store Manager Nigel Stopher said: “We look for something a bit out of the ordinary in our monthly winners and the overall winner comes from among them.
“It could be providing extra service or helping out other members of staff and anyone can nominate an employee and our customer service group selects the winner each month while the management team vote for the annual winner.
“We’re looking for consistent excellence, for people who go above and beyond, and we also take into account customer feedback and there’s a chance for them to provide that through our website which is on the back of each receipt and Judith certainly has the wow factor there.”
Judith said: “I was thrilled when I was told I’d won. I really enjoy working here, the staff are really lovely and Swansea is a wonderful place.
“I don’t know who nominated me for the monthly awards but it shows you’re doing a good job.
“On lingerie with bra fitting it can be quite a sensitive issue, particularly with women who may have had a mastectomy or young girls coming for their first bras and not everyone likes taking their clothes off.
“Training is very important and we all work very well together here. Every customer is different and it’s all about getting the right one for the right person.
“The choice of colours and styles is far better than it used to be and particularly in the fuller sizes.”
Lingerie Department Supervisor June Davies, from Mayhill, Swansea, said: “We’re all very pleased for Judith. She’s a huge asset to the team and to the store.”
