Two at the top (From Gazette & Herald)

Two at the top

Two Ryedale businesses are celebrating after winning awards at a prestigious event in the hospitality industry's calendar.

Andrew Pern, chef of the Star Inn at Harome, and Simon Rhatigan, manager of the Feversham Arms Hotel in Helmsley, were nominated for the best chef and best manager awards at the Northern Hospitality Awards which were held at the Lowry in Manchester.

In the best manager category, entrants had to demonstrate their success in their sector.

Simon won after showing what the judges described as "business acumen, consistency, creativity, systematic decision-making and people skills".

He said: "It's great to win, but I think it's easy to feel tall standing on others' shoulders. It was a team effort as we put a lot of time in. It's nice to be recognised for the work we do, and the award is for everyone."

Andrew Pern was delighted to receive his award, having been given a cooking demonstration earlier in the day.

"It's brilliant to win. There are so many good chefs in the north.

''The food is part of a package that we offer - it's the service, ambience and the food that people enjoy. But it's not just me, it was a team effort."

The judges praised Andrew as being "a wonderful chef" and "a true local talent".

Updated: 15:46 Wednesday, April 12, 2006