A CHEF at a Worcestershire care home has been recognised with a regional award at a recent event.

Andrew Hughes, Rashwood Care Home chef, in Droitwich, was awarded the Care Home Chef award for the West Midlands region at the recent Great British Care Awards event held at the ICC Birmingham.

Mr Hughes has been with Elizabeth Finn Care Homes, who own and manage Rashwood, for 13 years. 

He is responsible for prepping, cooking and the presentation of food for all catering services, breakfast, lunch, supper, morning and afternoon biscuits and cakes as well as hospitality such as resident and visitor special functions, private parties and events.

READ MORE: Droitwich woman slams Severn Trent over Witton Avenue leak 

Mr Hughes also assists the Hotel Services Manager in managing the catering department within the home.

Apart from creating seasonal menu cycles, the care home has said he is always aware of residents’ needs and discusses menus with them, ensuring their likes and dislikes are taken into account.

Mr Hughes said: “I am delighted to receive this top award as recognition of my role at Rashwood.” 

“I really enjoy my job and have the opportunity to be a part of the day-to-day running of the home, meeting residents and not just working in the kitchen. 

"This is very rewarding. Talking to our residents means I can ensure the food I create is what they really enjoy.”

Mr Hughes will now go through to the national finals to be held in March 2023. 

The Great British Care Awards are a series of regional events throughout the UK which serve as a celebration of excellence across the care sector. 

READ MORE: New business moving into former Topshop and Topman store

The purpose of the awards is to pay tribute to those who have demonstrated outstanding excellence within their field of work.

Elizabeth Finn Care Homes operates nine care homes across England and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the charity Turn2us. 

The group was founded by Elizabeth Finn, a pioneering 72-year-old English woman, who set up the Distressed Gentlefolks’ Aid Association in 1897, originally based in her London home.

Nominations for the 2023 Great British Care Awards are now open and can be made by visiting the event's website at https://www.care-awards.co.uk/nominate/.