THE last 12 months have been bright for the UK’s top day spa, Eastthorpe Hall in Mirfield despite the economic doom and gloom.

The family members who run it see no reason why this shouldn’t continue.

One of the partners, Sam Pearce, said: “Ours has always been the sort of business that provides a service for which people have saved up.

“Spending the day at a spa is a luxury that people treat themselves to.’’

So far, the collapse of banks and growing number of redundancies doesn’t seem to have affected their business much at all.

“People who have still got jobs are more stressed than before so they are looking for ways to de-stress and be kind to themselves,’’ she added.

Of course, Eastthorpe, which recently invested in a major extension with swimming pool, may be a special case.

As the holder of a national award for excellence it has the advantage over other spas yet to establish themselves in what is a fiercely competitive field.

However, at Alexandra House, Edgerton, which recently celebrated its first year in business, the signs are also optimistic.

Proprietor Maxine Stead said more than 1,200 clients have passed through the doors of the Victorian house where she offers holistic and well-being treatments.

“I’d say that a lot of people are feeling stressed and working hard at work and are saying they need to take some time out,’’ she said.

“Others have given up smoking or are dieting and see a treatment as an affordable treat. We get a steady stream of people coming to celebrate birthdays and hen parties.’’

Titanic Spa in Linthwaite – the country’s first eco spa, which opened three years ago – is also weathering the economic storm. It offers both day and overnight packages and has increased the number of apartments used for residential guests from 12 to 20.

“We’re still a growing business and doing better than ever,’’ said spa director Warrick Burton. “The spa business is still in its infancy as an industry and has a long way to go.’’

The recent recipient of an award for Outstanding Contribution to Industry from the Professional Beauty Awards, Warrick has been with Titanic since its inception.

A demographic study by the spa, which has its own water supply and uses solar power, has shown that it attracts visitors from all over the UK with a sizeable number of customers from the London area.

“We also found that we have clients who save up to come as a treat and those who come here as a monthly ritual,’’ said Warrick.

“In these time of doom and gloom I think it’s good to see an industry like ours that is being successful. It’s a bit of good news.’’

Such is the demand for pampering that even new businesses aimed at servicing this market are not deterred by economic difficulties.

At the 16th century Holdsworth House in Calderdale, for example, the owners recently created a beauty suite to cater for requests from guests for beauty and therapeutic treatments.

Beauty therapist Jenny Richardson has been brought in to provide everything from manicures and make-up for brides to body wraps, massage and facials for overnight guests. The service is also open to day guests.

“We had expected the wedding bookings to ease off because of the difficult times but it’s not turned out that way at all and we’re really busy,’’ said Lisa Bower from the hotel.

Although spas say they’re still doing well, most are now offering special deals to keep their customers interested and attract new clients. So if you’ve got the cash you’ll get more for your money.

The cost of pampering – if you can still afford it

A half day mid-week spa package at Eastthorpe is from £89 (special deal with treatments normally costing over £150) and includes full use of facilities as well as body oil and salt exfoliation; organic meal; inchloss wrap – combined with drainage massage and deluxe manicure.

Titanic Spa has a special ‘credit crunch’ offer for May – full day at the spa with facial or body wrap and a light lunch for £65

Alexandra House has a pampering deal for £65 which includes back massage and an aromatherapy facial, foot spa, paraffin wax hand treatment, cakes, drinks, use of relaxation rooms, robe and slippers.

Holdsworth House has Susan Molyneux facials from £29 and massage from £30.