will stay open.

In the last two years the hotel has shut its doors during the regular winter refurbishment.

But now general manager Mr. Roger Borsink will buck the trend.

And he pledged guests would not be disrupted.

The revamp will be carried out in December and January, and involve refurbishing the ballroom and conference centre.

A new mechanical system will also be fitted to the elevators.

Said Mr. Borsink: "We are pleased we will be able to continue to offer Castle Harbour's fine services to our guests throughout the year and provide employment to our associates.'' Mr. Borsink said he was encouraged by Government support in making the hotel a "year round operation''.

He also praised "overseas travel partners'' for their backing.

Meanwhile, it remains possible that Sonesta Beach will close this winter.

Managing director Mr. David Boyd said the hotel would be spruced up this winter.

But no decision had been taken whether to close or not.

"We will probably know in about a month,'' said Mr. Boyd.