CELEBRITY chef James Martin named a Darlington restaurant as 'the best in the UK' during his Saturday morning show.

James Close, who is head chef at The Raby Hunt, in Summerhouse, appeared on Mr Martin's Saturday morning television show with his sous chef Maria Guseva

The two Michelin star chef cooked on the show, while Mr Martin urged viewers to visit the restaurant, saying his experience was “the best meal I’ve ever eaten in the UK.”

The restaurant has previously featured on BBC series Masterchef the Professionals but this is the first time Mr Close has appeared on live daytime television.

His dish of Tagiolini Carbonara, with fresh truffle, was greeted with enthusiasm by the tv chef and his guest, Cherry Healey.

He also showcased the restaurant’s signature chocolate skull, which has a filling of yuzu, Japanese black pepper and popping candy.

He said: “It was a fantastic experience and of course I was delighted to hear James say that the best meal he’s ever had in the UK was with us."