Thousands raised to offer bursary in memory of Stuart Johnson

Nearly £8,000 has been raised to offer bursaries at the Edge Hotel School in Essex in memory of the late hotelier Stuart Johnson.

The Master Innholders launched a Just Giving page earlier this year to collect funds to offer bursaries, worth £3,000 each, in Johnson's name following his death.

A £12,000 target has been set and at the time of writing over £5,600 has been raised through the page from 54 supporters.

The Edge Hotel School offers students practical experience in the Wivenhoe House hotel alongside their academic studies.

Edward Johnson wrote on LinkedIn: "Thank you to the donors who have continued Stuart's legacy and contributed to Edge Hotel School bursaries (£3,000 each) for aspiring hospitality leaders.

"A significant amount of nearly £8,000 has been raised so far! Through the collection at the service at St Pauls Knightsbridge, gift aid and the majority came through the Just Giving page. Thank you! Many have been incredibly generous and enabled us to target a third or fourth Edge Hotel School bursary.

"Thank you once again; Stuart's family are incredibly grateful!"

Johnson was managing director of Brown's hotel in London's Mayfair and the 2012 Hotelier of the Year.

Friends and colleagues from across the industry paid tribute to him as a "quintessential hotelier" and a "true gentleman" earlier this year.

To donate to the Just Giving page, click here.