Mia Benson, bar manager at The Gate in Sutton Coldfield has been crowned December’s local hero in the Royal Town’s Sutton Serves Better scheme. 

She was named the winner of this month’s prize thanks to going above and beyond in her role and having an awesome sense of humour that always makes the team laugh.

She was nominated by The Gate proprietor, Mark Arnold, who said: 

“I couldn’t ask for a better bar manager.  Mia is consistent day to day and has a friendly and welcoming manner with all our regulars and new Gate goers.  Thank you Mia for everything, and just keep being you.”

Mia who lives in Sutton Coldfield, said: “I’m delighted to win this award. I’ve worked at The Gate since March last year and love working alongside such amazing staff and managers.  The customers make my job complete.

“Everyone is so friendly and caring at The Gate, it’s like one big family. My favourite part of the job is getting to speak to all the customers and helping them.”

Launched by Sutton Coldfield Town Centre BID, the initiative aims to recognise the excellence provided throughout bars and restaurants in the town centre, particularly recognising those individuals who go the extra mile for their guests.  Each month, a panel of local business representatives select one worthy winner.

The Sutton Serves Better awards follows the success of the Sutton Smiles Better scheme, which has so far recognized the fantastic customer service from individuals across a host of Sutton Coldfield businesses, including Holland & Barrett, The Gym, Appetites Café, the Grape Tree, TGI Fridays, and Eleon.

Angela Henderson, manager of the Gracechurch Shopping Centre and Chair of the BID, said,

“There’s no doubt that the hospitality industry has suffered some incredibly challenging times recently, facing circumstances like never before.

“We’re home to a wide range of brilliant venues throughout the town centre, and we have always been dedicated to supporting them however we can, whether that’s through What’s on Sutton Coldfield or events like Sutton Expo and Month of Music.

“The Sutton Serves Better award is a fantastic way to raise awareness and recognise the excellence in our pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes, and goes a small way to showing our appreciation for the hard work from individuals not just throughout the pandemic, but every day.”

Mia will receive a prize of £100 in local vouchers and will proudly display the Sutton Serves Better plaque.

To nominate your employee or local hero visit: https://suttoncoldfieldtowncentre.co.uk/2021/09/23/recognising-excellence-in-sutton-coldfields-bars-and-restaurants/