The manager at a Lake District restaurant has been ranked as one of the drink industry's top professionals.

Dan Bennett, general manager at Heft, was recognised in the third edition of the Harpers Wine & Spirit Magazine 30 Under 30 list.

Mr Bennett was invited to discover his accomplishment at the London Wine Fair held on May 20.

The list recognises the future leaders of the wine and spirit sector.

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This year, the judges, across a two-day period, reduced more than 100 entries from across the UK to a final 30, including six who stood out in particular fields.

The judging panel comprised noteworthy figures such as Katy Keating, MD, Flint Wines, Kim Wilson, MD & founder, North South Wines, Michael Saunders, CEO, Coterie Holdings, and head judge Jo Gilbert, deputy editor, Harpers Wine & Spirit, amongst others.

The prestigious list included a spectrum of promising talent from the industry, including sommeliers, winemakers, account executives, brand managers, and retail managers.

The head judge and Harpers deputy editor said: "As the industry faces major staffing issues, it is encouraging to see how much passion, drive and talent will soon be making its way into top leadership positions, if it hasn’t already.

"Three years in, we have noted that many of our finalists sit at the top of the age bracket (27-29). As you might expect, it’s those few years of extra experience and practical skills which help applicants to shine."

On his unexpected achievement, Mr Bennett said: "It’s been a bit hectic since I found out that I’d been chosen among the Harpers 30 under 30.

"It’s not something I was expecting to be recognised for.

"I’ve been interested in wine and drinks broadly since I became involved in the hospitality industry after I graduated from university, it’s a something that I enjoy sharing with others, especially with our guests at Heft.

"I love chatting about different wine styles, new wines, spirits, and beers I’ve found or new artisan producers that I’ve come across, and I certainly didn’t expect to get any form of recognition for what I enjoy and do day to day – you might say I’m made up!’’