A FRONT-of-house manager with experience of overseeing Michelin-starred restaurants across the country and looking after royalty will now welcome diners to a Darlington eatery.

Jatin Parmar, 37, has been appointed as the new Old Hall food and beverage manager at Rockliffe Hall, in Hurworth, where he will run The Orangery alongside executive chef, Richard Allen.

Mr Parmar's 13-year career in hospitality has seen him move from his home in Mumbai, India, to work in Australia, East Asia, the United Arab Emirates and across Europe.

Eamonn Elliott, chief executive at Rockliffe Hall, added: “Jatin’s reputation within the industry precedes him.

"He has worked at some of the UK’s top restaurants and brings with him a wealth of first class experience.

"The Orangery is going from strength to strength and we are very pleased to welcome Jatin to the Rockliffe Hall team.”

Mr Parmar said: “After working in standalone restaurants for a while I could always see myself back in the hotel sector and where better than Rockliffe."