A GORDON Ramsay-trained chef has joined the team at a North-East hotel and restaurant.

David Garlinge, a semi-finalist in MasterChef: The Professionals 2013, is the latest addition to Houndgate Townhouse in Darlington.

The new chef has 10 years experience in the restaurant industry, working for notable chefs including Mr Ramsay and Jason Atherton, at Maze and Pollen Street Social in London, as well as at local favourites The Raby Hunt and The Orangery at Rockliffe Hall.

His appointment follows the recruitment of new hotel manager Joe Nalder, from the 5 star Rudding Park Hotel in Harrogate in December, and deputy manager Jim Conway from Coach House at Middleton Lodge, near Richmond, North Yorkshire.

Mr Garlinge, said: “The exterior of Houndgate Townhouse grabbed me. That blast of refinement stood out in a place I didn't expect it to be in. I want my food to reflect that, simple and elegant, refined and recognizable.

"We have some of the best produce on our doorstep; I want to find the best of our region and show it off in my own way, and include some cherry-picked examples of the amazing produce that the rest of the world has to offer.

"I hope many people will join me on what I hope to be the biggest journey of my life.”

Natalie Cooper, the director of Houndgate Townhouse, said:

“It is great to have David, Joe and Jim head up the team. We are focused on creating a great customer experience whether that be eating, drinking or staying over, and hope to put Darlington on the map in the process.

"The Houndgate ethos is to create the feeling of a home from home where customers can enjoy our high quality offer of excellent produce and customer service in a relaxed environment. This offer aims to reflect the effort and attention to detail put into refurbishing the Grade II listed townhouse from council offices to the eight-bedroom hotel."

Houndgate Townhouse will celebrate its second birthday on August 1.