A KENDAL chef has been unveiled as the new man in charge of the kitchen at one of Cumbria's best-known foodie retreats.

Gareth Webster, whose previous experience includes The Wheatsheaf in Brigsteer and The Pig and Whistle at Cartmel, has joined The George and Dragon at Clifton.

Chris Curry, the general manager, said: “We are delighted to welcome Gareth as our new head chef and we are all looking forward to working with him. He is a well-respected chef who is familiar with the seasonal demands of a Cumbrian restaurant and we’re sure that he will bring an enormous amount of knowledge and experience.”

MORE TOP STORIES:

The George and Dragon, which has been named as The Good Pub Guide’s ‘Dining Pub Award’ for 2017 and last month scooped Sawday’s ‘Best All Rounder’ award for 2017/18, will welcome Gareth to the team from late June.

He has worked at notable establishments throughout his career, including the Michelin-starred restaurant of Chester Grosvenor Hotel, where he progressed to become sous chef before moving to Cumbria twelve years ago.

His appointment comes at a time when The George and Dragon’s sister property, Askham Hall, has further developed its kitchen garden and is now providing a significant supply of fresh produce straight from the land.

This is in addition to the rare breed pigs and shorthorn beef cattle that owner Charles Lowther rears for the chefs at both properties.

Gareth, who hails originally from Horwich near Bolton and now lives with his wife Andrea and their two daughters, said: "This is a wonderful opportunity to join an already very successful team, and I am extremely honoured and excited to get started at The George & Dragon.

"I’m looking forward to playing my part in providing a great all-round dining experience and making the most of the abundant produce and resources from the Lowther family estate."