David and Lynne Levin recognised at Bacchus Alumni Awards

David Levin, the founder of London's Capital hotel, and his wife Lynne, CEO of Levin Wines, have been recognised for their commitment to supporting hospitality graduates at the Bacchus Alumni Awards.

The awards, which launched last year, celebrate the professional achievements of alumni of the Oxford School of Hospitality Management at Oxford Brookes University.

Around 220 alumni, students and friends of the Oxford School of Hospitality Management attended the event at St Pancras Renaissance hotel in London earlier this week.

It was organised by the Bacchus Society, which helps Oxford Brookes students and former students build relationships within the hospitality sector.

Mr Levin, who is a visiting professor - as well as the benefactor behind a training restaurant - at the university, walked away with the Bacchus Special Award.

The award recognises an individual who has shown an ongoing commitment to the school, helping to contribute to its success.

At the start of this year, Levin was appointed an MBE for his services to hospitality and youth training.

Lynne Levin was crowned Mentor of the Year for her exceptional support to the university’s students.

Meanwhile, Peter Ducker, the chief executive of the Institute of Hospitality, received the Major Contribution to Hospitality Award.

Ducker was described as a “truly inspirational and respected figure” who has helped shape the hospitality industry.

Ben McEwen, Bacchus Alumni chair, said: “Our alumni are our greatest ambassadors internationally. They go on to find incredible success in the hospitality industry and to shape the reputation of theschool on the world stage.”

Celebrity chef Ken Hom and actress, broadcaster and food writer Madhur Jaffrey presented some of the awards at the event.

Jaffrey said: “It’s fantastic seeing the young students do what they do and do it so magnificently. The mentor programme is admirable and helps students make their mark on the international stage.”

Hom added: “The students inspire me. I love seeing the passion and eagerness to learn on their faces. Students go on to achieve such great things and I can see myself having a luxury retirement all over the world visiting their hotels and restaurants.”

Bacchus Alumni Awards 2016

• Bacchus Student Award â€" Jennifer Connelly
• Young Alumni Award â€" Robyn Isherwood, head of luxury events, Lillingston, London
• Mentor of the Year Award â€" Lynne Levin, director and CEO, Levin Wines, London
• Manager of the Year Award â€" Gareth Banner, general manager, St Pancras Renaissance hotel, London
• Major Contribution to Hospitality Award â€" Peter Ducker
• Special Award â€" David Levin, founder of Capital Hotel Group

Restaurateurs Robin Rowland and Andrew Guy and hoteliers Maurice Taylor and David Levin recognised in New Year's Honours >>

Peter Ducker appointed Institute of Hospitality chief executive >>

Oxford Brookes is UK's top school for hospitality management, according to survey >>

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