Meet Harvey: His Journey From Classroom to Cat Naps
After more than 25 years of teaching English and film studies, Harvey Summers was ready for a new chapter. One evening back in 2015, while watching the Channel 4 series Compare Your Life, he discovered the Longcroft Luxury Cat Hotel franchise – and something just clicked.
“I had a long-held desire to work in a role caring for animals,” Harvey explains. “And the conclusion to my teaching career left an opportunity to finally do so!”
Now in its 10th year, Longcroft Southport is nestled in the peaceful garden of Harvey’s home in Birkdale, Merseyside. With just five luxurious, climate-controlled suites and views of mature trees and local wildlife, it’s a tranquil haven for feline guests. The setting is quiet, leafy, and designed with care – exactly the kind of environment Harvey dreamed of creating.
Harvey and his partner are lifelong animal lovers, having shared their home with all manner of creatures over the years – from Pinky the goldfish to four much-loved cats (Marmite, Socks, Marlon, and Kevin), and now Harry, their yellow-crested Amazon parrot, who keeps everyone entertained with his chatter.
“What I love about running my own cat hotel is the vast majority of customers are like-minded people, who I get to know as well as their lovely cats,” says Harvey. “They really trust us with their beloved pussycats, and it’s great to see how guilt-free they are leaving their pets with us. And every guest is unique, so it’s never dull!”
Harvey’s advice for anyone considering opening their own Longcroft hotel?
“As I came to this role fairly late in my working life, I’d encourage anyone thinking about it to follow their instincts and find out if it’s for you. It’s rewarding in different ways to my previous career, and very satisfying in lots of new ways.”
Thinking of changing your life too?
For more information about opening your own Longcroft Luxury Cat Hotel, call us on 020 3887 2443 or email franchise@longcroftcathotel.co.uk for an informal chat with our team.
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