Barnsley based Fine and Country Inns held its annual awards ceremony last week to recognise the hard work of its 150 team members. Fine and Country Inns operates 8 hospitality venues across Yorkshire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire and held a glittering celebration part for all its staff.
Team from the Strafford Arms
The evening dinner was full of entertainment with a saxophonist, singer, magician, and a celebrity host who announced the award winners before the whole team danced into the night.
The Strafford Arms in Stainborough came away with the big award of “Venue of the Year” and The Strafford Arms Executive Head Chef, James Sephton, took the Group Head Chef of the Year”.
“As a chef, being allowed the independence and freedom with my team to bring imagination and flair into our dishes is of the upmost importance. Within my 8 years of working for The Strafford Arms and 5 years of leading the kitchen, I am always so humbled when looking through reviews and feedback and being able to recognise locally and regular customers through our open pass, many of whom support us week in week out. I am extremely thrilled to have won both awards, and proud of the whole Strafford team.”
Strafford team member, Ella Wilks, also won an award of “Team Member of the Year” for her hard work and dedication to delivering great customer service. Ella had received more compliments from customers through reviews than any other team member and was delighted to receiver her reward in recognition.
Gary Hunt, Chairman & CEO of Fine and Country Inns said “Working in hospitality has been really difficult over the past few years, firstly due to the challenges of the pandemic and now the current economic crisis. To be successful you have to have a really dedicated team who believe in their venue and work hard to give the best possible experience to our loyal customers. The team at The Strafford arms without question work together and help each other through the tough times. Everyone treats each other with respect and there is a real family atmosphere. They are a great example of genuine, hardworking individuals that create a team to make the business a success. I am extremely proud and pleased to be a part of their journey, and to have been able to recognise their efforts and The Strafford Arms with such a well-deserved award.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all our loyal customers for their continued support and look forward to serving you through 2023 and beyond.”
