The Malvern View Spa at the Bank House Hotel has recently welcomed a fascinating new member to the team.
Hinnarangolla Nayawaththage Pathmasiri, known as Bandara, has joined the team at the Malvern View Spa as a masseuse and has had quite a journey in getting from his native Sri Lanka to his latest venture in Worcestershire. We caught up with him to ask him some key questions:
Firstly, tell us a bit about yourself and where you’re from?
Going right back to the start… I grew up in Sri Lanka and came from very traditional Buddhist family. I was actually a Buddhist Monk for two years, which really enabled me to learn the power of healing hand and heart. I believe this has been of great benefit to me and the treatments I offer as it not only helps me provide a range of different therapies, but also helps others to understand just how powerful the human touch is. Massage is not just about the treatment, it is also a cleanse for the mind, body and soul.
How long have you been a qualified masseuse?
I have been working in the spa industry since 2010 when I qualified with an NVQ LEVEL 4 in Hair Beauty and Body Training. Since then, I’ve worked in a number of 5-star spa here in the UK, as well as in Sri Lanka and also in the Maldives. I have also undertaken many more qualifications, including Traditional Thai Massage (in Thailand), Holistic Therapy as well as Ayurveda Therapy.
You’ve joined us from Whatley Manor, right?
That’s right, yes. I spent two years working at Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa in the Cotswolds. That’s where I first met Tracy (Spa Manager at the Malvern View Spa). Tracy was the Spa Manager and I was working as Treatment Coordinator, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I love putting together bespoke treatments that will leave the client fully rested and restored.
So, why the move to Worcestershire?
Tracy and I had a really good working relationship at Whatley Manor, and we’ve kept in touch. When the position here became available, I told Tracy I was interested and asked if she would consider me. I did some research into the hotel, the spa and their ambitions and it really was a no-brainer. It’s great to be joining such a committed team in an amazing location such as Malvern and Worcestershire. I really can’t wait to get started.
You competed in the World Championship in Massage 2019, tell us about that…
The World Championship in Massage is a really great event held in Copenhagen each year. It’s a competition mainly, but it’s also a great opportunity the learn new techniques, find professional inspiration and also meet some great people. I came in the top 10, which I am really proud of. Overall, it was just an incredible experience. I’m also competing in The National Massage Championship this weekend (29-30 September) at the Olympia Beauty in London. It’s another great event, which I’ll make sure I keep everyone updated on…
Finally, what are your ambitions here at the Malvern View Spa and for the future?
I just love doing what I do. My ultimate aim is to continue my career as a therapist for as long as I can and to help people live happily and stress free.
To find out more about the treatments offered here at the Bank House Hotel, or to book a session with Bandara, please visit our Malvern View Spa pages.
