Meet Dez Turland, PR chef for Saunton Sands Hotel (part of Brends Hotels) in North Devon – a true Stalwart to the core.

What makes you a Stalwart? It’s all about desire, determination and dedication and, after nearly 35 years in the industry, I believe I’ve achieved that title.

How did you get here? I was a bit of a rebel at school and, after being turned down for the Army, I kind of stumbled into hospitality. This is when my passion for cooking was ignited, and I haven’t looked back since.

What are your goals? They have always been and will always be to never stop learning and to pass on my knowledge to the next generation, who are our future.

Do you have a life motto? Trust in those who trust in you, and always learn from your peers. Hard work makes the dream work.