Once again, the Fitzherbert Arms was part of the 94 pubs and bars across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland who scooped a prestigious County Winner title as part of the 2023 National Pub & Bar Magazine Awards. This is the fourth time the Fitzherbert team have been recognised by the publication as Staffordshire’s Best Pub since the Fitz re-opened in 2016 after a period of closure.
The National Pub & Bar Awards aims to put exemplary businesses across the UK in the national spotlight, showcasing the hospitality industry’s diversity, creativity and vital importance to the UK economy.
The announcement of this year’s 94 County Winners shows the level of quality being delivered to pub and bar visitors every day of the week.
The Fitzherbert Arms was selected on overall best practice across a number of operational categories and was officially crowned at a ‘red carpet’ celebration at 30 Euston Square, London, on Wednesday 23 June 2023.
Head Chef Connor joined owners Tim and Mary on the trip to London to celebrate the award and enjoyed time in the City looking at food operations of interest.
Mary said “we are very proud indeed of the Fitzherbert Team. They have shown an amazing degree of consistency over the years and deserve this award. It was great to be accompanied by Connor our head chef who plays a very big part, with his kitchen team, in the success of the Fitz, a big well done and thank you!”
Today marks a significant milestone as we raise a toast to our exceptional Head Chef, Andy, commemorating his 12-year journey with Cheshire Cat Pubs. Andy stands as a dedicated, genuine, and all-round ACE chef, consistently raising the bar and elevating the spirits of everyone at The Bull’s Head.
In reflecting on his time with Cheshire Cat Pubs, Andy shared 12 reasons that capture the essence of his deep connection with our establishments:
- The People: The team at The Bull’s Head is not just a workforce; it’s a family, fostering a genuine and supportive environment.
- Autonomy in Creativity: Cheshire Cat Pubs provide chefs like Andy the freedom to create their own dishes, source new ingredients, and build relationships with local suppliers.
- Thriving Atmosphere: The Bull’s Head, led by General Managers Andy and Steph, is known for its unrivaled hospitable atmosphere, drawing in crowds and keeping a high tempo.
- Owners’ Commitment: Tim and Mary, the owners, consistently strive for great results while ensuring each team member feels significant and valued.
- Work/Life Balance: Andy attests to achieving the right work/life balance, thanks to compromise and collaboration with the brigade.
- Picturesque Location: The Bull’s Head’s picturesque setting adds a special touch to the overall experience.
- Appreciation & Recognition: Personalized gestures, from a thank-you note after a busy week to birthday gifts, highlight the owners’ genuine care for their team.
- Motivating Tips: Financial rewards provide a significant motivation factor, ensuring top-notch quality in every dish.
- Loyal Locals: The pub’s genuinely nice guests appreciate the staff’s efforts, making The Bull’s Head a home away from home.
- Fresh Produce Commitment: Cheshire Cat Pubs’ dedication to using fresh, locally sourced produce plays a pivotal role in developing highly talented and motivated chefs.
- Trust: The importance of trust is emphasized, allowing Head Chefs the freedom to execute their vision and decision-making with confidence.
- Community Collaboration: Regular day trips and meals with other Head Chefs across the group foster idea-sharing and strategic alignment.
As Andy reflects on his journey, he is just one example of the many incredible individuals who contribute to making Cheshire Cat Pubs truly exceptional. Indeed, great people make great pubs – a timeless truth that resonates through our commitment to internal growth, recognizing the value of each team member, and celebrating collective success.
Another successful charity event to honour our summer charity challenge of Around the World in 80 Days with Cheshire Cat Pubs. Riders raised £510 on the day which will be equally divided between our two chosen charities, Action Against Hunger and Hospitality Action. The riders travelled from The Church Inn to The Cholmondeley Arms and then onto Staffordshire to our pubs The Fitzherbert Arms and The Mainwaring Arms, they then travelled back into Cheshire to The Three Greyhounds Inn, ending at The Roebuck Inn and The Bull’s Head for a well-deserved pint and a burger. The rained stayed away and the teams across all our pubs welcomed the cyclists with nibbles and drinks. We were delighted that everyone raised to the challenge and we look forward to welcoming everyone back next year. A big thank you goes to Boutinot wines and Adam Youds for organising such a successful event
This week the teams across our 7 pubs took part in a fun, yet competitive 5-a-side tournament at Wilmslow Phoenix Sports Club in Styal to increase their steps and raise money for our summer charity challenge of Around the World in 80 days with Cheshire Cat Pubs. We raised money from our two chosen charities; Hospitality Action and Action Against Hunger, through cash donations and our Just Giving pages. If you would like to donate too, please visit https://bit.ly/3ugWc2p and https://bit.ly/3y1Ju8M
Well done to everyone who participated, it was great to see the girls joining in and everyone enjoying themselves outside of work, a little bit of competition never hurt anyone! Massive congratulation to The Fitzherbert Arms team for their impressive win and a massive thanks to Hofmeister Beer for the much needed, refreshing full-time beers. A great day had by everyone!
Next up…. the 7 pub bike ride challenge! If you think you can handle it email adamy@boutinot.com for register your interest
