A CHEF who grew up in the North East and has worked in restaurants all over the world has returned to the region.

Martin Horsley has been appointed as executive head chef at Rockcliffe Hall, in Darlington.

He will oversee the hotel's 3AA Rosette Orangery restaurant, The Clubhouse and casual eatery Nu Sana, located above the spa.

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He has joined Rockliffe from Sofitel London St. James, where he was executive sous chef.

Mr Horsley has more than 30 years of experience in restaurants.

He started his career at Gleneagles in Scotland, before honing his skills at a a number of five-star hotels in Europe before spending a year at the one Michelin Star, 21 Queens Street, in Newcastle, under the guidance of Terry Leybourne.

He has also spent time in Australia, at hotels including the Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas, the Sheraton in Perth, Le Meridian and Stamford Plaza, and was executive chef at Sofitel Mansion and Spa at Werribee Park.

He also worked alongside Raymond Capaldi and Gary Mehigan at Melbourne restaurant, Fenix, resulting in the venue being awarded 'one hat' by The Age Good Food Guide.

Jason Adams, managing director of Rockliffe Hall, said: "We are delighted to welcome Martin Horsley to Rockliffe Hall. His culinary knowledge, skills, and decades of experience in the finest kitchens, hotels and restaurants will only further elevate our first-class gastronomic offering. Rockliffe Hall has a wonderful culinary fan base that I am confident will continue to grow under his leadership.”

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