It has been a real feast of awards for The Feathers Hotel in Helmsley.

While owners, The Coaching in Group, have just been named Hotel Group of the Year by AA Hospitality, The Feathers has now scooped the Best Hotel Restaurant accolade by Food Awards England.

“It’s a huge honour and a great pat on the back for everyone,” said a delighted General Manager, Tracy Warley, speaking after the awards ceremony held in Birmingham.

“For all in our close-knit team always go the extra mile to ensure that our diners experience the best possible service and culinary experience,” she added.

But it was a real night to remember for, Nawton born and bred, Head Chef, Tom Sleightholme, who had always dreamed of becoming a chef and took the first step on the road to his catering career by becoming a part time pot washer at The Feathers.

“I went on washing pots and occasionally helping out chopping vegetables when they were short staffed in the kitchen, all through my A levels at York College,” recalled Tom.

“I had no desire to go to university so went to work full time as a basic Commis Chef at The Feathers and the rest as they say is history.

For after the hotel was acquired by The Coaching Inn Group, Tom, went on to be named Kitchen Team Member of the Year and later Sous Chef of the Year in the company’s annual awards.

“Taking over as Head Chef was an exciting and initially scary experience, but it’s my dream job and I was given a lot of responsibility, support and encouragement by previous Head Chef Ian Turner,” he said

“Not only that, I’ve had amazing, one hundred per cent support from all five of my kitchen team members, which has made all the difference,” he added.

Tom is pictured second left holding the trophy, together with, first left, Front of House Manager, Hollie Bufton, Junior Sous Chef, Tomaz Rzeppzyncki, GM Tracy Worley, and Chef de Partie, Paul Goddard.