HAY CELEBRATES EXCELLENCE IN HOSPITALITY: 2025 AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED
Winners of the 2025 HAY Hospitality Awards revealed at recognition evening at the Radisson Hotel York.
The second annual HAY Hospitality Awards took place last night, uniting York’s leading hotels. Unlike traditional business-focused awards, the HAY Awards celebrate the individuals at the heart of hospitality. Across 12 categories, 40 finalists were recognised, from back-of-house to front-of-house, kitchen to reception, and the winners were crowned.
Behind every finalist was an extraordinary story that shows just how life-changing a career in hospitality can be. From saving lives to shaping careers, this year’s finalists represent the true spirit of hospitality. They reflect the industry’s inclusivity, with people of all ages, abilities, and nationalities finding their place and thriving. Their resilience shows in the way they overcome barriers, work tirelessly (sometimes in multiple jobs), and give back to their communities through charity and support. Described more like family than colleagues, they put others first and bring kindness, encouragement, and joy to everyone around them.
A highlight of the evening was the Lifetime Achievement Award. Unlike other categories, it featured seven finalists, as judges felt each individual deserved recognition. Together they represented an incredible 228 years of service to the industry. Carolynn Forster from The Milner York was crowned the overall winner, but all the finalists took to the stage for a well-deserved round of applause in honour of their inspiring commitment to hospitality.
Chair of the Hospitality Association, and General Manager at Elmbank York, Tapestry Collection By Hilton said “The HAY Hospitality Awards are now firmly part of York’s calendar, and it’s fantastic to come together again to celebrate the incredible people who make our industry thrive. Every finalist represents the dedication and passion that creates unforgettable experiences for our guests and keeps York’s hospitality sector vibrant. We’re grateful to our sponsors for their support in making tonight possible, and we look forward to seeing the awards continue to grow year after year.”
HAY Hospitality Award Winners 2025:
Back of House Hero (sponsored by York BID)
Angela Rose, Middlethorpe Hall
Hospitality Apprentice (sponsored by York College)
Yasmin De Souza, Hilton York
Hospitality Team (sponsored by Betton Wines)
Forest Team, Galtres Team
Lifetime Achievement (sponsored by Perfect Venue Styling)
Carolynn Foster, The Milner York
Most Promising Chef (sponsored by York St John’s University)
George Marghia, The Milner York
People’s Choice – YorkMix Public Vote
Anna Czarnik, Middletons
Rising Star (sponsored by Studio YCS)
Imogen Webster, Delta by Marriott York
Serving Superstar (sponsored by York Distillery)
Ben Winterburn, Dean Court
Sparkle award (sponsored by Ignite Concerts)
Maria Capasso, Elmbank York
Star Behind the Bar (sponsored by Ellers Farm Distillery - Dutch Barn)
Matthew Brough, The Grand York
Unsung Hero (sponsored by Little Vikings)
Julia Betteridge, Middlethorpe Hall
Warm Welcome (sponsored by City Cruises)
Samuel Wyn Humphreys, Middlethorpe Hall