Costleys prize for a menu of excellence
Entrepreneurial couple win top prize for Scotland
The biggest figures in Ayrshire hospitality have received the highest honour at this year’s Catering in Scotland (CIS) Excellence Awards.
Bill and Cath Costley, founders of the Costley & Costley Hotelier Group, were presented with The Lifetime Excellence Award, sponsored by Braehead Foods, for their commitment to improving the industry and encouraging young people with their hospitality careers over the past 25 years.
Directors Bill and Cath, of Troon, received a silver trophy from DJ and comedian Des Clarke and broadcaster, Jennifer Reoch, at a packed awards dinner held at the Double Tree by Hilton Glasgow Centre.
Neil Thomson, chairman of the judges said, “The story of Cath and Bill Costley is an inspiration to anyone entering the industry, their legacy is a fine example of what can be achieved by commitment and dedication creating one of the finest hospitality businesses in Scotland.”
Bill and Cath Costley founded Costley & Costley in 1988 and since then have built up the business to provide four award-winning country house hotels, two inns and two patisseries, employing over 300 staff and championing Ayrshire hospitality.
The business remains family owned and both Bill and his son Andrew, Director and Executive Head Chef, are responsible for the seasonal menus and leading the restaurant teams.
A Master Chef at 21, Bill Costley has been actively committed to ensuring Tourism in Ayrshire leads the way in Scotland and is held in great respect by his peers within the business community and hospitality industry.
They grafted for years to be the self-made couple they are.
Billis also a Board Member of Ayrshire College. As Director and Company Secretary, Cath has been active in all areas of the business and played a key role in developing business growth.
Receiving the award, Bill said, “It’s always rewarding to be recognised by your industry peers who appreciate the tireless hours and ups and downs that go into making a business a success as well as actively championing the industry within Ayrshire and beyond. Both Cath and I are extremely proud of the business and our staff who every day give a hundred per cent to ensure our customers receive a great service.”