Was Bishop's visit divine inspiration for Buxton's award-winning spa?

One of her first official functions as the new Bishop of Repton was to see how the University of Derby’s Buxton campus helps boost employment prospects for young people, and included a relaxing massage at the Devonshire Spa to see how it trains managers of the future.

Perhaps it was divine intervention, but two days later the Devonshire Spa was named the best day spa in the country by Professional Beauty magazine, beating some of the most luxurious day spas in the country.

Bishop McFarlane was joined by the Rector of Buxton, the Rev John Hudghton, on her fact-finding visit to the spa.

“They had a tension releasing scalp massage,” said Spa Management student Vicky Turner. “They said it was lovely and they really enjoyed themselves.”

Bishop McFarlane was keen to see how students at the university and Buxton and Leek College are gearing up for the world of work.

It was the second time in the finals for the Devonshire Spa, which began operating in 2006.

Isobel Stockdale, head of Spa and Tourism at the university, said: “The award is a testament to what we do, providing the industry with work-ready graduates.”