A FINE dining restaurant run by students and staff at Warrington and Vale Royal College is celebrating after receiving a top industry award.

Buckley’s, located on the college campus, has been awarded a prestigious AA College Rosette for the second year running.

The restaurant was visited during November by AA inspector Euan Davidson to see if it was worthy of retaining the accreditation.

The hard work and dedication of staff and students paid off, with the restaurant maintaining its Highly Commended AA College Rosette – the maximum that can be awarded to a college.

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Andrew Macleod, curriculum manager for the service industries, said: “Retaining an AA College Rosette is an incredible achievement and something we as a department are extremely proud of. It really reflects the hard work, dedication and commitment we continue to put in here at the college to ensure our learners are getting the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in industry.

“Buckley’s is not just a place for students to come and learn about hospitality and catering – it is a state-of-the-art commercial restaurant, one which they leave as qualified chefs and front-of house professionals.”

The AA College Rosette Scheme aims to recognise students – both front and back of house – who are the future of the hospitality industry.

The college accreditation process, provided by People 1st, also recognises colleges offering exceptional hospitality training.

In his report, Mr Davidson declared the food at Buckley’s as the 'stand out feature' and highlighted the impressive standards set by the team.

He said: “There may be some flashier college restaurants but few produce food like here.”

He also acknowledged the student’s good attention to detail in table set-up and the relaxed ambience maintained by the staff and students.