THE Swindon Marriott is back in business following a £3.2 million makeover. And to celebrate, bosses threw the doors open last week for a party.

The Pipers Way hotel is a popular venue for scores of Swindon businesses, including car giant Honda and finance firm Zurich, who make use of the conference facilities.

General manager Bertrand Dijoux is delighted with the new look.

He said: "We have gone for a modern look throughout and the conference room now has cream walls and a purple carpet.

"A lot of our clients do a lot of travelling and so frequently stay in hotels. We needed to take the hotel into the 21st century and make it stand out."

Adam Flint, deputy manager, thanked local firms for their patience while the work was completed.

"The party was arranged as a way to say a big thank you to everyone in the community including Honda, Zurich, Tyco, BP and Nationwide for their support during the last few months," he said.