I cannot be successful without the help and support of my staff. The Queen’s Head has to be more than just a place they come to work, it has to be a place they can learn and grow.

In doing so they help themselves, they help me, and they help you. The experience is much more pleasant for all of us.

My staff are encouraged to tread the path of personal development and be serious with regard to their chosen careers. The experience of working in catering establishments with the highest reputation has taught me that quality of service is a must.

They are precious to me but I realize it’s unlikely that they will stay here for ever! When they do move on I want them to look back happily at a period of their career that allowed them to acquire new skills and move on with confidence.

Staff can work towards their Personal Licenses and NVQs in customer care, food hygiene, health and safety and first aid at work.

Future courses will see them undertake cellar management, wine appreciation and the financial management of a public house.

One day they will each be able to run their own pub/restaurant, if they choose. When they do I’ll look forward to visiting them and sharing their success - they should be nice places I can go when I finally retire!