The head chef at a Malvern hotel has been shortlisted for a national award.

Rob Mason, head chef at the Cottage in the Wood, is in the running to be named Hotel Restaurant Chef of the Year at the Hotel Cateys.

The awards have celebrated the most successful hotels, hoteliers and hotel employees in the UK since their launch in 2007.

It is the second year in a row that Rob has been shortlisted for the award.

“Two years running is an outstanding achievement,” the Cottage in the Wood said on Facebook.

“Well done, Rob - we're very proud of you but we may need to get a bigger mantlepiece.

“If you haven't already experienced Rob's world-class cuisine, then make sure you book a table for his stunning Tasting Menu.”

In September, the Cottage in the Wood’s 1919 Restaurant was among the winners at the AA Hospitality Awards.

The awards are widely regarded as a mark of culinary excellence in the UK, with each rosette symbolising the highest levels of culinary creativity, skill and innovation.

Rob said at the time: “I am over the moon for 1919 Restaurant to be awarded 3-AA Rosettes.

“We have been working towards this goal since I joined the hotel in 2021, and it would not have been possible without the incredible kitchen team, who have put in countless hours of experimentation using local produce to create the Tasting Menu experiences we have.

“We are looking forward to continuing to push the boundaries, creating new extraordinary experiences for our diners.”

According to its website, the Hotel Cateys “recognise and reward those individuals and teams that work tirelessly to make sure their business delivers an exceptional guest experience.

“These accolades will recognise and celebrate excellence among those professionals at a glittering ceremony at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel on November 13.”