A popular pub and restaurant has welcomed a new head chef who used to visit the pub with his family as a child.

The Grey Mare in Belthorn has taken on 29-year-old Josh Lones who grew up in the village.

The chef, who started working in the industry at 14, has spent the past 10 years working in some of the best restaurants in Manchester, including the Lowry.

Josh said: “I have been working in catering since the age of 14.

“I pride myself on using the best and most local ingredients.

“Over the past 15 years I have worked with some of the most talented chefs in the North West and also abroad, having the ability to work at prestigious events such as the Olympics and many music and TV shows.

“I have the passion for food and with the help of Steve and Becky I believe we can create something really special at the Grey Mare.

“I look forward to seeing you all in the future for the best pub food in the North West.”

Josh has now decided to move closer to his roots to showcase his abilities and take the Grey Mare to the next level adding some exciting new dishes to their current menu.

Owners Steve and Rebecca Prince, who have owned the pub for 22 years, are elated to have Josh in the kitchen and recall him coming in with his family when he was younger.

Rebecca said: “It’s absolutely amazing – we are so pleased.

“We are so excited about where we are going to take the Grey Mare now and the levels it could reach.”