Waiters from the Cavendish and The Pig win National Waiters' Day Race

The event, which aims to showcase front of house professionals and careers, took place in London's Hyde Park yesterday (16 May) and is now in it's fifth year. Nearly 300 waiters took part.

Charlotte Storey from the The Pig at Combe took the title of the fastest waitress.

The best dressed award went to Foxes Academy, Minehead, Somerset, a specialist catering college and training hotel for young adults with learning disabilities. The Academy’s William Wallace also won the fastest student prize.

The event is organised by industry charity Springboard and Fred Sirieix, general manager at Galvin at Windows, London.

Anne Pierce, Springboard's CEO, said: National Waiters Day is all about promoting careers in food, drink and front of house roles throughout hospitality;" from baristas to sommeliers; Maitre'Ds to casual dining staff; bartenders to mixologists and waiters.

"It's about showcasing talent, what's involved in each role, how people can start and progress great careers and work for some great employers. It's about raising the profile of the profession and the skills it requires, and its also about having some fun and being happy because it's a happy place to work with massive prospects for employment and career development. This was a chance for job seekers to explore what was on offer with eager employers actively seeking new talent. Now, more than ever before, the industry has huge opportunities for UK jobseekers."

Sirieix added: "I was excited to once again lead the race and celebrations in Hyde Park – to be celebrating our fifth year of National Waiters' Day was a wonderful milestone! It's essential that we promote the ocean of career opportunities hospitality has to offer, celebrate the hard work of front of house professionals, and encourage more people to begin great careers in hospitality. With all the opportunities available, you can work hard and be rewarded with success.. There has never been a more exciting time to join this special industry."

The event was sponsored by Bunzl Catering Supplies and the Wine and Spirit Education Trust.

National Waiters’ Day celebrates fifth anniversary >>