Kenilworth's Virgins and Castle pub has been shortlisted for a national training award from the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII).

The award is for Innovation in Training and the Best Training Programme for an Individual Operator and the High Street pub is down to the last three in the UK.

The 16th century pub is part of Everards Brewery and owned by hospitality group Caviar & Chips.

Led by general manager Andy Lock since March 2020, the oldest pub in Kenilworth is quickly building itself a reputation for great food and drink and now as a great place to work.

The BII Innovation in Training Awards will be held in Canary Wharf in London on 28 April and not only has the Virgins and Castle been shortlisted for an award, but Caviar & Chips have too - for all the work they do for team wellbeing.

The BII commented in the announcement to the national finalists: "Our National Innovation in Training Awards showcase the individuals and businesses who put their people first, creating innovative training programmes and nurturing long term careers in the licensed trade.

"Year on year, we meet inspiring teams who support and champion their people through training programmes that support our thriving industry."

And according to general manager Andy, he's always looking for great people to join his team and he really enjoys delivering the training and development programmes in place.

"It goes without saying that it's a big team effort and I'm delighted for the team here for being shortlisted for another award," he said.

"We all work together on training and development and it's important to us to make it fun, interesting, but more importantly useful for everyone.

"Working in hospitality teaches you so much and gives great transferable skills for young people working part-time and seeking different careers out of school, college and university.

"But what we're trying to do here is build careers and show that hospitality can be a great career in itself.

"I love what I do. I feel privileged to run such a fantastic pub with brilliant people around me and it's even more rewarding when I see the team doing well themselves".

The Virgins & Castle and Caviar & Chips are currently recruiting and you can find out how to join here.