THE operations manager at a top Taunton hotel has been shortlisted for the title of Restaurant Manager of the Year in a national competition.

David Plant, from the Castle at Taunton, is in the final 16 of the Institute of Hospitality (IoH) contest.

This year saw the highest number of competitors in its 13-year history and David has been pitted against entrants from top hotels in London and other parts of Britain.

On hearing the news, David said: "I have always had a deep-rooted passion for the hospitality industry and ensuring our guests receive the highest standards of service.

"Reaching this stage of The Restaurant Manager of The Year is one of the proudest moments of my career so far, and I look forward to meeting the other finalists.”

He and the other finalists will be judged on a range of tasks at The Hotel Café Royal, in London, on Monday, March 6, concluding with the winner's reception.

The winner will receive a trophy, a bespoke professional development programme, a year of tickets to attend the top IoH events, a year's membership of the IoH and a selection of Prosecco.

The Castle's director and general manager Ronan Hunter said: "We’re all really pleased that David has reached this stage of a highly contested competition that’s had a number of illustrious previous winners.

"It’s testament to his hard work and passion for our industry, that I have witnessed first hand over a number of years.

"He joined us at The Castle back in 2020 and has very quickly become a key member of our team.

"He’s rubbing shoulders with people from some amazing venues, but I’m sure his experience and knowledge will shine through.”

IoH chief executive Robert Richardson said: "All the shortlisted candidates should be extremely proud to have made it this far in the competition.

"There is some amazing talent across the industry, and I can’t wait to see who will be crowned Restaurant Manager of the Year 2023."

IoH head of events and commercial Sarah Peters said: "It is wonderful to see so many amazing restaurant managers come forward this year from all over the country and from so many different sectors of the industry.

"It is encouraging to see the excellent talent we have in the hospitality industry.”