It’s time to get shaking, stirring and mixing those cocktails.

The ‘Greatest Bartender’ competition has been launched as part of the Shake and Stir Vintage Music Festival At Home Edition.

The contest to find the best mixologist is being run in conjunction with BH Area Hospitality Association and the Southampton and Region Hoteliers Association.

And it is being supported by Salvatore Damiano, President of the UK Bartenders Guild and former bar manager of the Captain’s Club and the Larder House.

The popular festival is moving on line this year (June 27/28) because of the ongoing coronavirus restrictions.

Festival organiser Mandy Payne of Stir Events! said: “This competition promises to be one of exciting highlights of the weekend.

“We are really looking forward to see all the mixing talent on display.

“We are putting the call out for all bartenders to show what they can do.”

Mandy explained: “Any bartender from anywhere in the country can submit a video of themselves making a cocktail by the deadline of June 13.

“Judges will select the top eight from bars, restaurants and hotels and these will be shared on our website and social media and voted on.

“The winning three entrants will each create a new cocktail for the weekend of the festival, June 27/28. These will be judged via a live Zoom feed.”

The winner takes home a trophy and £50 cash prize.

The festival weekend features a whole host of events including dozens of bands playing live online, participatory events, demonstrations and competitions.

Mandy added: “For obvious reasons we can’t hold festival in the normal way this year so we and taking it virtually into your home!”

◾️Videos should be emailed to bhhospitalityassociation.co.uk and more details can be found at shakenstirfest.com