Ramkumar Govindaswamy, a trainee manager at the University of Warwick's award winning Warwick Conferences operation, has been served a second helping of awards success.

Ramkumar, from Leamington Spa, won gold for the second year running in the 18th annual TUCO (The University Caterers' Organisation) Chefs and Food Service Skills Challenge on Tuesday March 29th.

The competition is a grueling challenge designed to put food service staff through their paces and showcase their skills, abilities and imagination to provide a first class dining experience.

The competition is split into two parts: the preparation, where finalists are asked to design a menu card for lunch, and a live final. During the live element, Ramkumar was required to lay-out, serve and clear a three course meal with wine and coffee for four people.

Ramkumar said: "Like last year, the standard of my competitors was incredible, so winning the award again is an amazing feeling. Dining is not just about the food, but creating an ambience that ensures the customer enjoys every aspect of their visit. 

Julie Taylor, events and operations manager, said: "Ramkumar's attention to detail, calmness under pressure and fantastic skills in restaurant service are a credit to Warwick Conferences.

"To impress the judges in such a respected competition is no mean feat and we're delighted he's a part of our fabulous team."

TUCO is the University Caterers' Organisation. The annual Food Service Skills Challenge, which this year took place in Blackpool, is open to all TUCO member Universities and Colleges and acknowledges and rewards the top service staff in the higher education sector.