Owners of The County Hotel, Maureen Kent and Sandra Masson, won the RAC's 2001 regional Little Gem award at the Cafe Royal in London this month.

The sisters received the award for their relaunch of the Bathwick hotel.

Mrs Kent said she was thrilled to receive the accolade a month after the duo won the AA's Guest Accommodation of the Year award.

Mrs Kent said: "It's unusual but I am delighted. We wanted to put The County back on the map in Bath."

She attributed the success of The County Hotel to the winning team of staff and a female perspective taken on the decor.

She said: "Most of the staff have been with us since we opened and we have got a really nice little team.

"We have created a restful feeling in the hotel. It's subdued, not busy, and I think the staff like it."

The women's involvement in decorating has resulted in an elegant feel to the hotel, despite mistakes.

Mrs Kent said: "There were some experiments that didn't work, but they are getting corrected.

"We have installed really good quality beds because I wanted to imagine what I would like if I were in a hotel."

The RAC award recognises hoteliers who provide a consistent commitment to excellent guest care and service, say the sisters.

The sisters aim to cater for people who are down to earth, but appreciate style.

Mrs Kent said: "It's not for the rich and famous, but all our customers have been absolutely delightful, with many repeat bookings, not just from tourists, but also businessmen."

The basement of the County Hotel used to house the Fusion nightclub.

Now unused, the basement is an area Mrs Kent and Ms Masson hope to tackle in the future.

Mrs Kent said: "We are hoping for bigger and better things."