A BAR supervisor from Maybole has been awarded the prestigious Chris Rouse Scholarship by Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland.

Jack McCormick, who works at Trump Turnberry, will benefit from executive coaching sessions in addition to his chosen scholarship, the Whisky Appreciation Scholarship, which will see him complete a Certificate in Scotch Whisky with Edinburgh Whisky Academy.

The scholarship award was set up in 2019 in memory of the hotel's former general manager.

Mr McCormick said: "I am extremely honoured and very grateful to have been chosen as the recipient of the Chris Rouse Scholarship; this means a great deal to me.

"The scholarship will not only provide me with valuable executive coaching sessions, but also serve as recognition of the highest standards we all strive for as a team at Trump Turnberry in providing an exceptional service to our guests.

“I am looking forward very much to developing my skills, maintaining the high standards we set for ourselves at Trump Turnberry and continuing to contribute to the growth of the Scottish hospitality industry and our tourism sector from our world-renowned resort in Ayrshire.”

This new experience will equip him to host exclusive tasting experiences at Trump Turnberry and share his knowledge of whisky.

HIT Scotland, a charity for the Scottish hospitality industry, encourages the development of anyone working or studying in the sector.

In 2021, it awarded 319 scholarships across 142 venues in Scotland.

The Chris Rouse Scholarship is awarded to someone working in the Ayrshire area who the charity believes upholds the highest standards for guests and inspire the best from their team.

David Cochrane, chief executive of HIT Scotland, said: "It is inspiring to have so many of our HIT Scotland scholars in one place to celebrate their achievement this year.

"These learning experiences are absolutely vital for our sector, allowing fresh ideas to permeate throughout the industry and upskilling the Scottish hospitality workforce."