THE founder of a Lake District hospitality business has opted to include more dishes on his menus for those with dietary requirements.

Entrepreneur Ian Dutton, owner of The Pig in Windermere, the Village Inn in Bowness and Miller Howe Cafe in Grasmere is including more gluten free dishes.

The Pig, which specialises in pork inspired dishes, has enjoyed great success since it opened in March last year.

In addition to some of the restaurant's old favourites such as smoked pig and potato hash, the new menu offers crunchy smoked ham skins, traditional fish and chips and black forest gateau soufflé – all of which are gluten free for those suffering with coeliac disease (gluten intolerance).

"This year has proved particularly fruitful for us, with the Dutton Cuisine brand more recognisable and our efforts being recognised on a wider stage," said Mr Dutton.

"Our customers are the most important aspect of our business and we are keen to listen – and respond – to their changing needs."

According to charity Coeliac UK, the disease affects at least one in 100 people in the UK and in Europe. However, only about 24 per cent of people

with the condition are clinically diagnosed.

"By providing a fuller gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan range on our menus and dishes that are still imaginative and creative, we are hoping to attract and satisfy an even greater clientele," Mr Dutton said.

The Village Inn is also offering a more varied selection of gluten-free dishes such as deep fried halloumi fingers, spiced duck and sweet potato cottage pie, American spiced chips and a selection of steaks.

Changing the menus regularly and keeping things ‘fresh and modern’ has been key to the growth of the Dutton Cuisine brand.

Ian’s efforts have been rewarded this year, with the Village Inn winning two international awards for ‘Best Bar and Grill 2017’ and ‘Excellence in European Cuisine 2017’ at the Restaurant and Bar Awards last month.