Local produce on the menu during recent World Host Training

Tourism Development Officer Zoe Bratton (front left) pictured with some of those who took part in the World Host Training programme organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council in association with Tourism NI.

Organised in association with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and Tourism NI, the training took place at the award winning Bushmills Inn as part of an ongoing programme of events to mark the NI Year of Food and Drink.

The Causeway Coast and Glens has a fabulous reputation for its food and drink and this was celebrated on the day.

Course trainer and local food ambassador Wendy Gallagher said: “I am a proud Food Ambassador for the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council area, which drove me to develop my food and drink tour business - Causeway Coast Foodie Tours.

“I look forward to showcasing the world-class food and drink produce available within the region.”

Wendy’s knowledge and supply of delicious local food and drink samples were enjoyed by participants as they developed the skills they need to become food ambassadors.

Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council’s Tourism Development Officer Zoe Bratton said: “We were delighted with the response to this World Host Food Ambassador Training course.

“It is a true example of how those involved with the tourism and hospitality sector are passionate about learning and selling the stories of the fabulous food and drink produce we have in our destination and right across Northern Ireland.”

Building on this success, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council plan to run the course again in the New Year.

WorldHost customer service training has been used to train over 200,000 people in the UK, and one million people worldwide.

Originally developed in Canada – widely recognised as the leading global destination for visitor welcome – and adapted for the UK market by People 1st, the WorldHost programmes provide a gold standard in training for any business that relies on day-to-day interaction with customers for success.

All WorldHost trainers are quality assured and are regularly tested to ensure they continue to deliver world-class customer service training.

The aim is to transform customer service standards across the UK, and build the nation’s reputation as one of the most welcoming tourist destinations in the world. WorldHost programmes have been endorsed by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, and were also used to train tens of thousands of volunteers and staff at the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympics.