Ollie, who was born in Eastbourne, originally went to the hotel as a work experience student when he studied catering at the former Eastbourne College of Arts and Technology. He applied for a job when he left college and after starting work at the Grand 11 years ago as a commis chef he worked his way up through the ranks to become second in command in the kitchen. "I was shocked but really chuffed to receive the award," said Ollie who works with a team of 20 chefs and helps executive chef Keith Mitchell run the kitchen, plan menus and order food from suppliers. "I have always liked food and being a chef seemed a natural thing to do," he said. "It enabled me to combine my interest with a profession and I never thought of doing anything else. When I was at college I was determined to get a work experience placement at the Grand and then applied for a job and was delighted when they took me on. I enjoy serving really good food and having the camaraderie of working with a great team." Members of staff at the hotel are nominated for the annual award by their department heads and Ollie won a two-night stay in a UK Pride of Britain Hotel or Small Luxury Hotel of the World of his choice. He was presented with the award by Grand Hotel general manager Jonathan Webley. Webley said: "The Grand has won many tourism industry awards over the years. All of these accolades are due to team work and the ongoing commitment of the members of staff, whether they are meeting guests on a day to day basis or working behind the scenes like Ollie, and this is why we like to recognise them with our own internal awards."