Outstanding achievers in the hospitality industry have been honoured with Excellence Awards.

Hundreds attended a weekend banquet that saw a host of gongs handed out — culminating with the "best of the best" award.

That went to Miriam Johnston-Fox, an administrator at the Tuckers Point Club.

The audience heard excerpts from nomination forms praising Ms Johnston-Fox, which said: "At age 17, Miriam was handing out beach towels by day, turning beds by night and maintaining her studies in between.

"During an initial six-year tenure in hospitality she worked day and night in a myriad of progressive positions that included areas of housekeeping, laundry, front desk, reservations, accounts and general administration.

"She then ventured beyond to discover her niche in human resources and spent the next five years developing her skills in the field.

"Miriam joined the Tucker's Point Club team in April 2004 in the post of HR/Office Administration.

"Armed with a strong work ethic, a winning attitude and determination to make an impact, she has been promoted twice during her tenure.

"As a member of the senior management team, Miriam's advice to others is 'know what you want and take responsibility for making it happen'."

She won a $20,000 money market fund presented by Butterfield Bank.

The event was hosted by the Visitor Industry Partnership along with Belco, and the Ministry of Tourism and Transport.

Barbera O'Shaughnessy, chair of the Visitor Industry Partnership, said: "The Excellence Awards is a time for the hospitality industry to shine as we proudly acknowledge the efforts of the men and women of the tourism industry who contribute to the success of Bermuda.

"Miriam is an example of a young professional, who through dedication and perseverance has achieved excellence and we are proud to acknowledge that she is the 'Best of the Best'."

Here are the other winners, and what those who voted for them had to say:

Front of House — Mervyn Caesar, doorman/ bellman at The Reefs: "Mervyn has integrity, motivation, an incredible work ethic, inexhaustible pride, and a positive attitude no one can match."

Front of House — Donna Alvarez, front of house / telephone at Grotto Bay: "Donna is a perfect example of a leader who brings pride, joy and motivation to her staff."

Front of House — Paula Butler, concierge/tour desk at Elbow Beach: "Paula puts the D in Delight for that is what she brings, every day to her guests."

Best Waiter/Hostess — Antoinette Waldron, Fairmont Hamilton: "Antoinette is the backbone of the Fairmont Hamilton coffee shop. She has an excellent memory for names and requests."

Bartender — Charlie Bristol, Mickeys: "Charlie is a beautiful soul. He shows unwavering cheerfulness, commitment and team spirit and is always smiling."

Best Chef — Shaker Estephane, Fairmont Southampton: "Shaker is a talented and passionate chef. His dishes are a work of art — tasty and appealing."

Airline /Travel Agent — Claudette Adams, American Airlines: "Claudette's pleasant personality and professional demeanour are an asset to the airline and the travel agent community."

Entertainer — David Frith, Bermuda Islands Pipe Band: "David is the consummate entertainer whether ringing his Town Crier's bell or playing his bagpipes with the Bermuda Islands Pipe Band."

Heart of House — Robert Dill, Fairmont Hamilton: "Robert is from the old school of customer care, positive attitude and good work ethics providing a positive influence for young Bermudians."

Housekeeping — Clarabelle White, Rosedon: "Clarabelle is an amazing lady who lives for the hotel. She always has the guest's best interests at heart."

Sales and Marketing — Hal Browne, Fairmont Hamilton: "Hal is very dedicated to tourism, working above and beyond the call of duty and at all hours."

Transportation — Nevis Barboza, taxi driver: "Nevis has given 55 years of his dedicated working life to promoting Bermuda as a goodwill ambassador."

Hospitality support — Michelle Geary, Designer Flowers: "Michelle prides herself on her professionalism, passion for her job and being the best with cheerfulness, and fairness."

Activities and attractions — Connie Dey, Bermuda National Trust: "Connie is a leading light in the cultural tourism industry and her energy and dedication set an example for all."

Young Person with Most Promise — Davon Adams, Elbow Beach: "Davon is a personable outgoing individual who enjoys meeting people and goes out of his way to make guests feel at home."

Retail — Jeanine Siese, Bermuda Perfumery: "Jeanine is the epitome of the perfect employee, dedicated, reliable, enthusiastic and productive. Nothing is too much trouble for Jeanine."

Production Services — Maurice Bailey, Tuckers Point Club: "Maurice delivers excellent service and support to all. He has a great, easy-going personality with a positive attitude."