A Cumbrian pub group has appointed a new executive chef.
Darran Hargan, of Grange-over-Sands, has joined the award-winning family-run Lakeland Inns and will oversee the development of the company’s Lake District venues.
A former head chef of a large Lake District hotel, Darran also spent three years as an assessor for NVQ hospitality and management trainees across the area, a background he will now deploy to help nurture the skills and experience of those working throughout the business.
Darran, 51, said: “We’ve got an exceptional group of handpicked head chefs and have deliberately matched their style and personality to the individual feel of each of the Lakeland Inns venues.
“My role is working alongside them and their teams to help bring their ideas and plans to life.
“I’m also passionate about helping people to develop their career and move forward within the industry. What we want to focus on in the future is bringing staff members up through the Lakeland Inns business to take on more senior roles when they’re ready.
“While each pub is very different, they all have the same high standards, so we can provide team members with a range of experiences to help them to grow and fulfil their potential.”
Lakeland Inns operates The Sun in Ulverston, The Commodore in Grange, The Black Cock in Broughton, the Royal Oak at Spark Bridge and The Royal Oak Inn in Curthwaite.
It also includes award-winning eco-brewery The Lakeland Brewhouse which produces a range of ales and beers sold in pubs across the North West.
Darran added: “Joining Lakeland Inns was a fantastic opportunity that I just couldn’t miss. It’s good to hear laughter and people enjoying themselves in the pubs again after the last year. We’re all looking forward to the weeks and months ahead.”
Kirsty Ridge, Lakeland Inns managing director, said: “We’re delighted to have been able to welcome someone as experienced as Darran on board to help steer the vision for each pub and to bring out the very best in our teams.”
