Dean Court trinity announced as HAY awards finalists

16 August 2024

Three starring members of the Dean Court team have had their relentless efforts towards making people happy have been recognised by Hospitality Association York (HAY) this week, being named as finalists for its inaugural HAY Hospitality Awards.

Frank Caulfield, Emily Benton and Gergo Laszlo are key members of the team at The Inn Collection Group’s York city centre venue, with Frank and Emily both finalists at the company’s own awards night earlier in 2024.

A member of the team at Dean Court since 2014, Frank’s has woven himself into the fabric of the historic Minster City venue, turning his hands to  wherever they are needed.

Providing customer service of the very highest standard, he makes a lasting impression on both visitors and his colleagues and is a strong contender in the Warm Welcome category.

Part of the kitchen team for almost six years after initially beginning her Dean Court tenure as part of the housekeeping squad, sous chef Emily is in the running to be named Most Promising Chef.

Shining across all elements of a chef’s role, she has played a key part in the growing food business at Dean Court, with its hearty pub-food style menu available to all from 12 – 9pm every day.

The final nomination for trainee manager Gergo comes in the Serving Superstar category, who has ensured two 100% scores during mystery shopper visits and brings a warmth and connection that enhances customer dining experiences.

The trio will join fellow finalists on September 5th at a reception where all of the exceptional individuals that go above and beyond to give a warm welcome and provide a memorable experience to visitors will be celebrated.

Assistant Manager Rebecca Hardcastle said: “We are so excited that three of our wonderful colleagues have been shortlisted as finalists in HAY’s first ever Hospitality Awards.

Frank is Mr Hospitality himself and has worked at Dean Court for 10 years now. He always greets with a smile on his face and nothing is too much trouble for him.

Emily started working at Dean Court at the age of 17 in housekeeping but her true passion was the kitchen.

Around six years ago she took on the role of pastry chef and has never looked back. She is very talented and just keeps growing.

Gergo aka Gary is the ultimate ‘one man band’ he can turn his hand to anything and does not sit or stand still. The customers love him and so do we.

Congratulations and good luck to all the nominees on the evening. I’m sure it will be a fantastic night.

Adam Wardale, Chair of HAY said: “There are many awards in the region that celebrate the businesses or the leaders and over the years we’ve worked collaboratively to support a number of these initiatives.

“This is something we wanted to get off the ground to recognise and celebrate the people who make our hotels a great place to visit and work.

“Hospitality can be a challenging industry but also very rewarding, the passion and dedication of our teams is a key part of what keeps visitors returning to York and we want to applaud that”