Calcot & Spa said yesterday (14 July) the accused had been suspended following the incident several weeks ago and has now been formally dismissed.
Nathan Davies, who has worked as a chef at Calcot since 2017, posted pictures of his injuries on social media over the weekend and urged others in the hospitality industry to stand up to abuse.
He wrote: “I’ve been working at Calcot Manor for two years and after ignoring the constant burning, punches (some causing black eyes) and being forced to eat items ranging from rabbit shit to raw chicken…jokes went a bit too far when I was scalded and hospitalised due to someone pouring boiling butter down my trousers (all for a crack and a laugh).
“Everyone should be careful working in kitchens and not take abuse or anything similar to what I’ve experienced in case it ends up like this.”
Calcot said it was an “isolated incident” and “strenuously denied” accusations of a wider culture of bullying in its kitchens. It added that a full investigation is in progress.
The hotel also dismissed allegations that executive chef Richard Davies was involved or present when the incident took place.
In a statement posted on social media Richard, who has appeared on Great British Menu, wrote: “I am deeply sorry, embarrassed and mortified that this happened in one of my kitchens and for what Nathan has had to mentally and physically endure as a result. I have never seen anything like this in my 25 years in the industry and was appalled by the horrific act and this is certainly not something that I or the rest of the team support.
“I of course share responsibility for this act but was not at Calcot when it happened. The chef responsible did not set foot back in the kitchen in his chef whites, I immediately suspended him, investigated the matter and he was subsequently dismissed.”
Members of the hospitality industry have expressed their disgust at the incident and offered support to Nathan.
If you are struggling with abuse or difficulties at work industry charity Hospitality Action can offer support.
