The Chester Hospitality Association has announced the return of its People Awards for 2024.

The awards, in association with Chester Race Company, Horseradish and Saffron Vanilla, are a chance to celebrate the talented individuals at the heart of Chester’s bustling hospitality industry. They will shine a light on, and honour the unsung heroes who demonstrate dedication, resilience, and commitment in an industry that has faced unprecedented challenges over the last few years.

A total of 16 categories will be featured, including ‘Rising Star’ and ‘Unsung Hero’, there are awards that celebrate front and heart of house, talented chefs, as well awards for sales and revenue stars, top teams and the manager of the year. In addition, there are the Judges and Chairman's awards which aren't open for entry but will recognise inspirational figures from within the sector.

Steven Hesketh, chair of Chester Hospitality Association, said: "I am delighted that we are launching our second awards following a hugely successful launch last year.

"Amidst the challenges and triumphs of our ever-evolving hospitality landscape, the People Awards give us a chance to highlight the exceptional individuals and teams who fuel our industry's resilience and innovation, as well as raise money for charity.

"These awards are not just a recognition but a celebration of the heart and soul of Chester’s hospitality industry and we hope as many businesses as possible will join us in applauding the remarkable people that make our hospitality sector truly exceptional."

Stephen Ramsden, director of Saffron Vanilla, added: "As a local agency that provides staff for the hospitality sector, we are absolutely thrilled to be sponsoring the Chester People Awards for the first time.

"This is a great opportunity for talents to be showcased and recognised by industry experts. Hospitality crosses boundaries of diversity, culture and gender, it's a fantastic sector to grow and progress within. We look forward to seeing the nominations and celebrating at the awards in June."

Winners will be announced at an awards celebration at Chester Racecourse on Thursday, June 20.

Rupert Worden, group catering director at Chester Race Company, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting the return of the Chester Hospitality Association People Awards by becoming the headline sponsor for this year’s event.

"This is an amazing community occasion to celebrate and promote hospitality right across Chester, recognising the talented and passionate individuals who deliver excellence in the sector. There is so much incredible hospitality to shout about in the city and we’re very much looking forward to seeing the spotlight shine on those who deserve to be rewarded for their efforts.”

The awards are supported by Chester Race Company, Horseradish, Saffron Vanilla, Avernim, CanDo Payment, Elavon, The Guide and The Hospitality Hero, with support from Cool Breeze Events, CSP, Nineteen Agency and RW Photography. Charity partners for the 2024 awards are Hospitality Action and Chester Share.

Applications are now open, with submissions being welcomed until midnight on Friday, April 19. Both members and non-members of the Chester Hospitality Association are encouraged to enter, with full details and the entry form available at www.chesterhospitalityassociation.com