A NEW chef has been appointed at a north Cumbrian pub.

Chris Archer has been appointed as head chef at the Pentonbridge Inn, at Penton, near Longtown.

He brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge having cooked professionally, across the UK for the last 15 years.

Chris, who is originally from Hull, describes himself as a traditional chef, with a flair for presentation who loves old school techniques but still enjoys experimentation with new flavours and techniques. He’s a strong believer that the finest produce needs little embellishment, just a skilled hand.

Chris’s love of cooking was evident from a young age when he appeared on Ready, Steady, Cook as a 15-year-old and won, boding well for a bright future. He started his career by throwing himself in the deep end and gaining valuable experience at some of the country’s leading 1 and 2 Michelin starred establishments including The Vineyard, Winteringham Fields, Midsummer House and The Yorke Arms. Chris was appointed to his first head chef role at The Cottage In The Wood at Braithwaite in 2014, which was also his first introduction to Cumbria, the region that was set to become his second home. During his tenure there he gained 3 AA Rosettes as well as winning Lancashire Life “Restaurant of the year”. He was a finalist for Cumbria Life’s “Chef of the Year” and represented the North East on BBC’s Great British Menu.

Chris said: “I love to cook with the finest produce from all over the world but find the natural Cumbrian larder a joy. The meat and dairy is incredible and the number of passionate artisan producers working across the county is not only heart-warming but very exciting for a chef. I can’t wait to get started at Pentonbridge Inn.”

Last November, chef Gary McDermott and other staff members walked out before evening service.

The pub was forced to make alternative dining arrangements for its guests.

Gary was replaced by chef Curtis Stewart who has also left the business.