Member Article

Two new appointments at Matfen Hall

Matfen Hall Hotel has strengthened its culinary and management teams with the appointments of a new Head Chef and Operations Manager.

Head Chef Chris Delaney has joined the Northumberland golf and spa hotel from Close House Hotel at Heddon-on-the-Wall, where he led the team at the award-winning Argent D’Or restaurant for 7 years.

Chris, who was trained by acclaimed restaurateur and chef Albert Roux, has also worked at prestigious North East venues Jesmond Dene House and Slaley Hall.

He will be lending his culinary and creative skills to Matfen Hall’s 2 AA Rosette awarded Library Restaurant.

Chris said: “It’s great to be heading up the fine dining offering at one of the top country house hotels in the region. I’m looking forward to launching my new evening and Sunday lunch menus soon – my food is French-inspired, but I’m passionate about sourcing seasonal local produce to add a taste of the North East.”

The second appointment is Michael Bateman, who has joined as Operations Manager from the luxury Samling hotel in the Lake District, which held a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Michael said: “Being Northumbrian born and bred, I’m thrilled to be back home and to be working with the team at Matfen Hall, which is such a well-respected hotel in the North East. I’ll be drawing on my previous experience to make sure we are providing first class service to our hotel, wedding and conference guests.”

Bernard Bloodworth, General Manager, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Chris and Michael to Matfen Hall, both of whom are professionals with excellent reputations in their industries. Both are originally from this area, and with the hotel being owned by one of Newcastle’s oldest and well-known farming families, it’s great to have this local flavour to our team.

“We’re excited about our plans for 2013, and the strengthening of our team with the appointments of Chris and Michael has put us in an even better position going forward.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Souter PR Newcastle .