A public manager in Epsom has been treated to a dinner at a restaurant of her choice for herself and her family to reward her commitment to her job.

Jenny Close, general manager at The Rubbing House in Epsom, was selected from over 100 entries across the country for going the extra mile in her job.

The pub manager has worked on Christmas Day for the past 15 years and regularly works over 90 hours a week, giving up her personal time with her family for work.

The competition was organised by the food wholesaler Bidfood as part of their “Christmas Gift campaign”, which seeks to reward hospitality workers in the UK who work at Christmas and on Boxing Day every year.

Winners throughout the country were nominated across four categories: care, accommodation, foodie outlets and charities.

Ms Close said: “I’m chuffed to have won. I really enjoy working on Christmas Day but it’s nice to be recognised.

“It’s not just me that works on the day, my team work incredibly hard too and it’s a credit to them that I’ve won this award as well.

“Christmas Day at The Rubbing House tends to be a real mix of people, from 7 year olds, to 97 year olds, everyone comes into the restaurant in a great mood. It’s a lovely day to be at work.”

Andy Kemp, group sales and marketing director at Bidfood, said: “I was so pleased to be running Bidfood’s Christmas Gift for a second year, recognising all those who work so hard to make Christmas a special time for all of us.

“The fact that we chose additional winners, really speaks volumes about the calibre of entries received.

“A huge thank you is in order, not just for the winners and finalists, but all of the entrants whose incredible efforts and generosity certainly doesn’t go unnoticed.”