Heathrow houses 'Best Business Class Lounge'

Virgin Atlantic has received a prestigious award for its "Clubhouse" lounge at London's Heathrow Airport.

The airline, owned by British entrepreneur Richard Branson, was handed the award for Best Business Class Lounge.

Skytrax, which distributes the awards, insisted that the competition was stiff and that the firm beat off the likes of Cathay Pacific's Hong Kong Business class lounges to claim the top spot.

Features of the Heathrow-based airport lounge which impressed the judges included a new hair salon where passengers can get pampered before they fly, as well as a spa pool and sauna.

Other facilities available are pool tables, a 14 metre cocktail bar, a gourmet restaurant and a cinema showing Blockbuster films.

Steve Ridgway, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, said: "We're thrilled that our Heathrow Clubhouse has been chosen as the world's best haven for business travellers.

"Whether it's on the ground or in the air, our teams will never stop delivering the innovative products that all travellers should experience during their journeys."

He added: "Thank you to everyone who voted for us."