A MEMBER of the Rockliffe Hall front of house team has been shortlisted for the Young Chef Young Waiter finals in London.

Hannah Sloane, 18, from Darlington, is one of only 16 waiters to make the finals of the awards.

Hannah has worked in the hospitality industry since the age of 13 when she started working in a café. Also a qualified chef, she joined Rockliffe 18 months ago. Hannah beat stiff competition to be shortlisted for the award after her manager, Jatin Parmar, encouraged her to enter.

Hannah said: “When I got the email to say I was through to the finals I couldn’t believe it, I really didn’t expect it. I’m so pleased and my family is very proud. I can’t wait to head down to London later this month. It’s a brilliant opportunity.”

Established in 1979, the competition, run by private members club Nth Degree Global in partnership with UKHospitality and the Restaurant Association, promotes hospitality as a career of choice, profession and vocation.

Hannah will join 15 other shortlisted young waiters and 16 young chefs to take part in a live final in London on October 28 and 29, which will include a series of challenges and tasks. The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony and party to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the competition.

Mr Parmar, Old Hall food and beverage manager at Rockliffe Hall, said: “I’m delighted that Hannah has been shortlisted for these high profile awards, but not surprised. She’s exceptionally good at her job and passionate about the industry. I wish her the best of luck for the finals.”

The judging panel for the competition includes chefs Jason Atherton, Tom Kerridge, Brian Turner and Tom Aikens.

Jason Atherton said: “I’m so pleased to be involved in this year’s Young Chef Young Waiter and to help promote the hospitality industry to young people. It’s fast-paced and hectic but a rewarding, exciting industry to be a part of and this competition is a great way for young people to start out.”