New award launched to champion Northamptonshire’s emerging talent

22 May 2026

A brand new category has been launched as part of the Weetabix Northamptonshire Food & Drink Awards 2026/27 to celebrate young people already making their mark within the county’s hospitality, food and drink sector.

Sponsored by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), the Young Rising Star of Food & Drink category will recognise enthusiastic and ambitious employees who are bringing fresh ideas, commitment and a positive attitude to their workplaces.

Open to employees aged between 16 and 25, the award is aimed at those who live or work in Northamptonshire and are demonstrating dedication, creativity, fresh ideas and a strong ‘can do’ attitude in their role.

Importantly, entrants must be nominated by their employer and the category is designed to shine a spotlight on employed team members rather than business owners. Nominations are expected from across the sector including front of house teams, kitchen staff, apprentices, undergraduates, those in their first job, and employees working in food and drink production.

The new category has been created to highlight those showing real promise early in their careers and making a valuable contribution to their workplace and the wider industry.

“Northamptonshire’s food and drink sector is full of talented young people who bring energy, ideas and dedication to their workplaces every day, often behind the scenes.

“We already recognise college students and young chefs through other Awards categories, but this new award has been created to shine a spotlight on those working front of house, in hospitality kitchens and within food and drink production who are showing real promise early in their careers.

“This category is about celebrating the young people who are already making a difference in their workplaces and giving them the encouragement and recognition they deserve. We know there is some incredible young talent across the county and we are very much looking forward to seeing the nominations come in.”Rachel Mallows MBE DL, Awards Director

“We’re proud to sponsor the Young Rising Star of Food & Drink category, which shines a spotlight on the next generation of talent shaping Northamptonshire’s food and drink sector.

“Supporting young people entering the industry is vital for sustaining skills and growth locally. At West Northamptonshire Council, we recognise the enormous contribution this sector makes to our communities and economy, and these awards are a fantastic way to celebrate the passion, creativity and excellence that make our county stand out.”Cllr Mark Arnull, Leader of WNC

Entries will be judged through a combination of employer supporting statements, recorded interviews with nominees and additional information gathered during the judging process.

Judges will be looking for employees who demonstrate exceptional qualities in the workplace and a clear interest in building a career within the industry.

Finalists will go on to meet an external judging panel before Gold, Silver and Bronze winners are announced at the Awards Dinner later this year. Each finalist will receive a complimentary ticket to the Awards celebration and Gold winners will also be invited to receive mentoring following the Awards.

Entries for the new Young Rising Star of Food & Drink category close on 30 June, while entries for many of the more established categories - including Booker Gastro Pub of the Year, Community Café of the Year, Restaurant of the Year and World Cuisine Restaurant of the Year - close earlier in the month on 19 June. 

Winners will be announced at the Awards celebration at Royal & Derngate, Northampton.