A CATERING company which was founded by the pastry chef to a North-East aristocrat has returned to its first home.

Searcys, which was founded in 1847 by John Searcy, the pastry chef to the Duke of Northumberland, is the new official caterer for The Alnwick Garden and The Treehouse in Alnwick.

The Duchess of Northumberland, Lady Jane Percy, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Searcys at The Alnwick Garden. They have a world-renowned reputation for quality, sustainability, and innovation, using locally sourced produce to create a delightful food and beverage offering that fits our vision of The Alnwick Garden and The Treehouse.”

Catering for the Duke and Duchess required skill and artistry few people possessed in 1837 and the high society and royal guests expected the best from pastry chef and confectioner John Searcy.

In 1947, after ten years of service, the pastry chef got a loan from the the Duke and Duchess to start his own catering company.

Matt Thomas, managing director of Searcys, said the company was honoured by the appointment.

He added: “We will continue to support the values important to this landmark British location and first home of Searcys.”