MERCHANT Hotel owner Bill Wolsey (62) was named "industry legend" at Hospitality Ulster’s Pub of the Year Awards bash in the La Mon Hotel in recognition of more than four decades in the hospitality sector.
Wolsey's Beannchor Group, of which he is managing director, operates a portfolio of around 50 bars not to mention a pizza chain and one of Belfast’s grandest hotels.
He clinched the accolade at a ceremony attended by 450 guests and which recognised the cream of the north's hospitality industry, with 14 main awards presented.
“These awards recognise and reward excellence and the important contribution local venues make, not only within their own communities, but to the hospitality industry as a whole," Hospitality Ulster chair Olga Walls said.
“This year we have further developed the awards categories to recognise all the people and businesses, from rising stars to seasoned pros that make Northern Ireland’s hospitality industry as impressive as it is.
"We saw a huge increase in entries this year, with the standards the highest ever, which is a real indication of the quality and diversity of the sector."
The Hospitality Ulster Rising Star award went to Miss Sindile Moyo, an exceptional young student, who graduated in July with a degree in International Hospitality Management from Ulster University.
The three main Pub of the Year winners were the Sunflower in Belfast (city), Mary’s Bar, Magherafelt (urban) and Friels of Swatragh (rural).
Commitment to local food awards went to Pier 36 in Donaghadee, Tedfords in Belfast and Newforge House in Magheralin while best bar person of the year is Nathaniel McCauley from Muriels Café Bar in Belfast.
Other winners included the Salty Dog Hotel and Bistro (Bangor), Manor Country Hotel (Enniskillen), Front Page Bar (Ballymena), 26 West Bar and Gril (Belfast) and the La Mon Hotel and Country Club (Castlereagh).
