26th June was one of those nights that remind you exactly why we love this industry.
The Chester Hospitality People Awards returned for their third year, and what a celebration it was full of worthy nominees, well-deserved cheers, and moments that genuinely gave us chills.
Held at Chester Racecourse and led by the ever-brilliant Lucy Meacock, the evening was a beautiful showcase of everything that makes Chester’s hospitality scene so special.
From passionate baristas to superstar chefs, from rising young talents to teams that feel more like family, every single person in that room had a story worth applauding.
Sixteen awards were handed out, plus several highly commended nods, and it was impossible not to feel proud seeing so many familiar faces recognised.
The team at iKO Projects swept up an incredible four trophies, while Rowton Hall Hotel also took home two, including Head Chef of the Year and a front-of-house triumph.
Whether it was The Chester Townhouse celebrating wins in sales and special recognition, or Chester Zoo’s venue team taking the Judges’ Choice, every award told a tale of dedication, creativity and sheer hard graft.
Rupert Worden, Group Catering Director at Chester Racecourse, said:
“The Chester Hospitality People Awards shine a spotlight on the incredible individuals driving Chester’s vibrant hospitality scene. This year’s awards have highlighted the immense talent and passion of our winners and nominees, whose invaluable contributions continue to shape our city’s exceptional landscape.”
There were countless standout moments.
Liberty Mitchell picked up the ‘One To Watch’ award, a reminder of how bright the future is. The ‘Unsung Hero’ award for Emma Page-Hibbs from Chester Cathedral felt like a collective thank you for all the behind-the-scenes magic that often goes unnoticed.
And when the singer, Sophie Roxanne, took the stage, it genuinely sent a shiver down the spine, the kind of goosebumps that only come from being part of something that matters.
A huge shoutout has to go to everyone who made the night possible, from the sponsors and suppliers to the event organisers at Cool Breeze Events. Not only did the event shine a light on so many deserving people, it also raised vital funds for Hospitality Action and Share Aid Chester, a reminder that even on a night of celebration, this industry never stops looking after its own.
Steven Hesketh, Chair of the Chester Hospitality Association, summed it up best: this was all about recognising the incredible talent and amazing venues that make Chester such a standout city for hospitality. And we couldn’t agree more.
If you’re reading this and you’re in a leadership role, here’s your nudge.
Take a moment this week to give someone on your team a bit of recognition. A personal thank you, a handwritten note, a gift card, or even your own mini ‘award’ can mean more than you realise.
In fact, studies show that 69% of employees say they’d work harder if they felt their efforts were better appreciated. A little surprise and delight might just be the spark that keeps your best people motivated and proud to be part of your business.
It doesn’t have to wait for a big awards night to make someone feel seen. Whether it’s shouting out a barista who always remembers regulars by name, or treating your kitchen porter to a coffee just to say, ‘thanks for being brilliant,’ those moments build loyalty and love for the work we do. They’re the heartbeat of hospitality.
So go on, spread a little of that Chester spirit. Celebrate your people, champion their talent, and keep showing why our industry is the best in the world for bringing out the best in each other.
If you care about the future of hospitality and want to be part of the change, check out what we’re building at Hospitality Hero HQ, visit our website to get tickets to our next event!
