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Last year's winners, Craig Bancroft and Nigel Haworth, took their Catey triumph for the Three Fishes pub at Mitton, Lancashire, as recognition of the excellence they themselves had striven to instil in the business since its opening in September 2004. "The Cateys are the Oscars of the catering industry," said Haworth, who remembers being elated when he found out their hard work had been rewarded and acknowledged by their industry peers.

The Three Fishes had already received a heap of praise for every aspect of the business by the time it made it through to the final rounds of the Catey judging process. Despite this, our industry experts were still blown away with what had been achieved after the 400-year-old inn had received a £500,000 refurbishment and the attentions of Bancroft and Haworth (who also own and run the Michelin-starred Northcote Manor in Langho and an outside catering company with a contract at Blackburn Rovers Football Club). Within just a few months of opening the Three Fishes, the pub was serving 1,200-1,300 covers a week.

The hospitable atmosphere, which mixes traditional with contemporary, and the knowledgeable staff were all praised, but it was the food that amazed most, with its remarkable quality and Haworth's commitment to using the best local suppliers. Children aren't patronised either, receiving scaled-down versions of the main menu, rather than the usual chicken nugget or chips cop-out favoured at many pubs.

No doubt fired up by all their praise, the business partners revealed in August 2005 that the Three Fishes theme would be expanded to the surrounding counties. Expect new pubs to appear in Yorkshire, Cheshire, Cumbria and Derbyshire within the next five years, all striving for the same award-winning standard. "Pubs are a great medium and as much fun as Northcote Manor," commented Haworth at the time of the announcement.

It's a high bar for all concerned and Haworth, who will be one of the judging panel for this year's award, intends to be equally exacting in choosing his successor. "I will look for a special business that is doing something outstanding in its area, with people who are true individuals," he said.

Judges' criteria

• The Pub and Bar Operator of the Year Catey is open to people who run, own or manage a pub with a strong food element.
• The judges are looking for someone who demonstrates sound business planning and a good grasp of financial matters.
• Flair and innovation are also important - candidates should show imaginative use of resources.
• The winner will be a good host who serves good food, but also has a commitment to staff training and shows involvement in the community.