Prince of Wales shortlisted for Licensee of the Year

The couple behind the transformation of one of Birmingham's best known pubs, The Prince of Wales in Moseley, have been shortlisted for the prestigious Licensee of the Year Award by the British Institute of Innkeeping.

Keith and Diane Marsden where shortlisted among the final six of the annual award, known as the "Oscars" of the licensing trade, which recognises quality, dedication and innovation in the pub and licensed trade industry and is given to the most committed and business-savvy licensee in the country. All 50,000 licensees across the UK are able to enter the prestigious award and are judged vigorously on criteria such as Staff Development, Marketing and Industry Representation.

After a grueling final day of judging, in front of nine industry experts, the Marsdens are now awaiting the outcome of the judging panel, which they will find out at a special event on London's Park Lane on the 13th May.

The story behind the Prince of Wales

Based in leafy Moseley Village, in South Birmingham, The Prince has undergone a loving refurbishment under the stewardship of the Marsden family, including an overhaul of their once dingy beer garden to what is now an attraction for beer lovers across the region, thanks to its range of real ales, 150-seater covered marquee area, Mo-Tiki cocktail bar and "La Choza", its own cigar shed.

Recent work has seen a former 1970's garage converted into a heated "Bothy Bar", and it has also seen the interior of the pub restored to its former glory, including a recent refurbishment of its snug using local craft and tradesmen. As well as the transformation of the pub itself, Keith and Diane have also worked hard on their staff development, with ongoing training and performance reviews for all employees, including mentoring many of their staff to fill managerial positions from within, and encouraging young people to make a career in the industry.

A word from the owners

Keith Marsden, who took control of The Prince seven years ago with wife Diane, said:

"We are very proud to be shortlisted for this award. It is a testament to the skills of our staff and the love of our guests. That's the thing about the Prince, our guests love it. It's thanks to them that we are here. "

Diane Marsden, who oversees the day to day running of the pub said:

"Anyone who visits The Prince will discover there's a lot to love: a hundred different rums, eight cask beers, fifty single malts, a great pub wine list of over thirty great wines. Guests can try a cigar - New World or Cuban - we have the best of the best. We have a passion for a good night out and we want to share this with the world." 

The awards are to be presented at The Annual Lunch & AGM of The BII at The Dorchester on May 13

Author: ahmed