A BORDERS health spa is leading the way in people power - by going platinum.

Stobo Castle has become the first employer in Scotland's entire hotel sector to gain the Investors in People Platinum Award.

And it's such a big deal, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon turned up to make the presentation.

For nearly 30 years Investors in People (IIP)has been recognised internationally as a leading accreditation for workforce management.

Stobo Castle now employs over 170 staff - and accounts director Yvonne Cowan couldn't hide her delight on Wednesday as she collected the platinum award.

She told us: "As the only business in the Scottish hotel sector to achieve this prestigious award, we are extremely proud of, and grateful to, the team of hard-working management and staff at Stobo who contributed to our IIP success.

"Such is our enthusiasm to continue to improve how we manage and develop our people, we look forward to working towards the next challenge.”

The IIP Platinum accreditation is the highest accolade that can be achieved and is currently held by only one percent of all IIP accredited organisations.

First Minister Sturgeon said: “My warm congratulations to everyone at Stobo Castle.

"Achieving this recognition is testament to the excellent work of the staff and management, and their commitment to the development of their workforce.

"An organisation’s employees are its most valuable asset, and I would encourage all businesses to work towards these extremely high standards.”

Stobo Castle has just celebrated 40 years of pampering and now welcomes around 40,000 guests each year.

Bonnie Clarke from Investors in People in Scotland added: “This is a fantastic achievement for Stobo Castle, congratulations!

"Investors in People recognises organisations who are truly committed to their people, continuous improvement and customer service.

"We have supported Stobo Castle since 1996 and we’re delighted to see their ongoing dedication recognised with this Platinum award."