Major awards for Wessex Internet Hospitality nominations open

Companies and businesses from across the region have signed on as sponsors for this year’s BH Area Hospitality Association (BAHA) Recognition Awards, which shine a light on the industry’s unsung heroes.

County Foods.

Chef de Partie/Commis Chef of the Year, sponsored by Comax.

Kitchen Porter of the Year, sponsored by Chinastack Catering Equipment Ltd.

Local full fibre broadband provider Wessex Internet has beaten other providers from across the country to be awarded ‘UK Fibre Provider of the Year’ at a leading industry awards ceremony in London.

In addition, the Blandford-based company won the ‘Best Rural Provider’ category for the second year running, recognising its commitment to connecting rural communities across Dorset, Somerset, Hampshire and Wiltshire, and bridging the digital divide. Wessex Internet impressed judges with its customer-centric approach.

“It has invested significantly in customer service and network upgrades, meaning their satisfaction scores are industry leading.

In addition, judges noted the company’s rapid growth and exceptional dedication to bringing full fibre to rural communities.

Hector Gibson Fleming, Wessex Internet CEO said: “We’re thrilled to have won these two awards.

“The hard work and dedication of so many people across our business is the reason we’ve managed to beat the majors in our industry from across the UK to win these fantastic awards.”

Nominations are open for the third annual Recognition Awards, with a glitzy ceremony celebrating individuals and teams in hospitality taking place at the Cumberland Hotel, Bournemouth on Sunday, October 1. The main awards sponsors this year are Booking.com and NFU Mutual, with Bournemouth Coastal Bid as main supporter. Twenty-four other companies have also booked to sponsor award categories and the ceremony. Ellis Jones Solicitors is an awards sponsor for the first time this year.

Nigel Smith, managing partner, said: “As a local business, we are proud to help BAHA recognise the unsung heroes who make such an important contribution to the success of the area’s hospitality and tourism industry.

“We’re looking forward to seeing lots of outstanding entries in the HR/Admin/Accounts Person of the Year category, as well as the awards night later in the year.”

Andy Brennan returns as host and creative director of the awards for the second time. Drinks sponsors for the awards and all BAHA events going forward are: Tolchards, Shanty Spirits and Thatchers.

More details from: bhhospitalityassociation.co. uk/bh-awards/recognition-awards-2023

This year’s award categories, and sponsors are: Sales Manager of the Year, sponsored by A-One Insurance.

Events Operations of the Year, sponsored by Bidfood.

Receptionist of the Year, sponsored by BCTC. Housekeeper of the Year, sponsored by Clean Linen Services Ltd.

Head/Sous Chef of the Year, sponsored by in association with Phil’s Happy Dogs www.philshappydogs.co.uk Tel: 07721 094 494

Bar Person of the Year, sponsored by Smugglers Cove, BCP Council.

Restaurant Manager of the Year, sponsored by Cater Elite.

Waiter/Waitress of the Year, sponsored by T M Recycling.

HR/Admin/Accounts Person of the Year, sponsored by Ellis Jones Solicitors.

Reservations & Revenue Person of the Year, sponsored by Charminster Dry Cleaners.

Assistant/Duty Manager of the Year, sponsored by The Coffee Bean Company.

Spa/Pool Person of the Year, sponsored by UMC Air Conditioning.

Maintenance Person of the Year, sponsored by Waste Management Facilities.

Night Staff of the Year, sponsored by Greenwing UK.

Deputy/Operations Manager of the Year, sponsored by Harvest Fine Foods.

Special Contribution to BAHA 2023, sponsored by BAHA.

SEN Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by SWRAC.

Apprentice of the Year, sponsored by Event Temps.

B&P College Student of the Year, sponsored by Bournemouth & Poole College.

Bournemouth University Student of the Year, sponsored by Bournemouth University.

Exceptional Customer Service, sponsored by Booking.com

Rising Star 18-25 years old, sponsored by NFU Mutual New Forest, Isle of Wight and Bournemouth

Career Progression, supported by Bournemouth Coastal BID

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