A LAKE District chef is set to feature on the first episode of a BBC Two brand-new series about hospitality.

BBC Two is set to screen The Hidden World of Hospitality, as Tom Kerridge shows what goes on behind the scenes in hospitality.

In the eight-part series, Tom visits 16 family-run cafés, pubs, bars, restaurants, and wedding caterers up and down the country, all of who go above and beyond for their customers without them realising.

In the first episode, Tom joins Ryan Blackburn, chef patron of two family-owned and run restaurants in Ambleside, in the heart of the Lake District, the Old Stamp House and Kysty.

Tom looks to uncover the secrets to Ryan’s success and learn how he has survived and thrived despite the turbulence that has hit the hospitality sector in recent years.

Ryan, who has held a Michelin Star since 2019, offers a tasting menu celebrating the best of Cumbrian produce.

With the Michelin awards fast approaching, Ryan and Tom are both developing new dishes for their respective menus, their dishes need to meet the high expectations of guests and the Michelin inspectors, but Tom and Ryan will have to convince themselves first.

Ryan Blackburn said: ”I’ve admired Tom for years. His accomplishments are immense. To have him visit the restaurant and spend time with the team has been amazing, especially sharing his own insight into some of the things he’s had to face over the years to maintain his success and to be able to deliver and meet expectations of every guest that comes through the door.

"Operating at this level is hard work, it’s a total team effort, and it’s definitely not for the faint-hearted, but the rewards are well worth it.

"Everyone in the industry needs to be very aware of the demands and impact all this can have, and above all make sure that we look after everyone along the way taking into account health, well-being and our work-life balance"

To watch the episode tune into BBC Two on Thursday, July 27, at 8pm, to watch the story unfold.