A RESTAURANT has learnt it has retained its two Michelin star status.

The Raby Hunt, at Summerhouse near Darlington, has been recognised at one of the highest levels of culinary expertise for the second year running.

In 2017, the restaurant, headed by self-taught chef James Close, was the only new establishment in the UK to be included in the elite group of those with two Michelin stars.

Mr Close said: “It was amazing last year to find we were the only new two star restaurant.

“And then the pressure is on to ensure that those high standards are maintained so it’s fantastic to receive that acknowledgement from Michelin for the second time.”

The Michelin guide praised The Raby Hunt for “the personality and talent of the chef” which was “evident in th expertly crafted dishes which are refined, inspired and sometimes original”.

The restaurant has recently undergone at £400,000 refurbishment and the creation of the Kitchen Table, which allows six diners to eat while watching the chef at work.