A FOUR star hotel in the Lake District has unveiled its new head chef as it looks to grow its reputation for fantastic food.

Chris Lee will be heading up the kitchen at The Belsfield Hotel, Bowness, which currently holds one AA Rosette.

With previous experience including heading up an Antony Worrall Thompson kitchen, he is well equipped to take on the role.

And after stints at neighbouring Bowness hotel, The Ryebeck and a premier golfing resort, The Belfrey in Sutton Coldfield, Mr Lee wants to bring his rustic yet refined style of food to one of the longest established hotels in the Lake District.

"The Lake District is awesome, and I’m thrilled to have a new opportunity to create food that customers want to experience," Mr Lee, who lives near Bowland Bridge, said. "The Belsfield is iconic and the region has so much to offer, local ingredients such as Cartmel Valley Game make cooking and working in the Lake District unrivalled."

Mario Malcharek, general manager at The Belsfield, said that he was 'excited' to welcome Mr Lee as the hotel's new head chef.

"He has a creative yet traditional style which fits in with our ethos at The Belsfield," he said. "His knowledge and experience from across different kitchens will be an asset to our team and to the dining experience we offer our guests."

The 80-cover restaurant is open to both non-residents and staying guests daily for dinner from 6.30-9pm and for Sunday lunch from 12.30-2.30pm.

The Belsfield informal Brasserie is also open daily mid-day to 9pm.