Penwith College Restaurant, Senara, AA Hospitality Awards

Professional cookery students, Martinas Taraskus and Thomas Tregarthen competed against colleges from across the UK in a contest entitled “Milestones: 75 years of the NHS, 100 years of Disney or 50 year since the first Concord flight”.

The students planned and executed an event demonstrating the celebration of the progressive development of equality and diversity through 100 years of Disney.

Revealed in a glittering ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel, presented by Claudia Winkleman, representatives from the College revelled in the accolade as they were announced as finalists in the AA Hospitality Young College Restaurant of the Year Award category.

At this prestigious event they were in the company of the best chefs, the best hotels and restaurants in the UK including friend of the college, Paul Ainsworth, who won the Chef’s Chef award.

Winners Paul and Matt Exeter College with finalists Emily and Dean Penwith (Image: Supplied)

Dean Bungay said, “We are extremely proud to be finalists again for the College Restaurant of the Year.

"We work continuously hard throughout the year to achieve an exceptionally high level of industry professionalism to prepare our students for employment in the incredible hospitality industry. Being part of this process, presenting to a panel of judges and attending events in London is a huge adventure and learning experience for the students.”

Emily said, “Whilst we were disappointed not to have retained our title for the second year in a row it was a closely fought competition and we have upmost respect for Exeter College who won the overall prize.

"We have plans with Exeter College to collaborate on some projects later this academic year. It’s great that the southwest has once again taken 2 out of the 3 finalist awards – such a great place to live, learn and work within the hospitality industry. ”

The award has been sponsored by People 1st International.