Charlotte Vincent named head chef at the Candlelight Inn

2023 Great British Menu contestant Charlotte Vincent has been appointed head chef at AA-rosette gastropub the Candlelight Inn in Chard, Somerset.

The 17th-century pub is owned by Mike Rose and won its first AA rosette in 2022.

Vincent previously worked as a pastry chef at the Royal Clarence Hotel in Exeter and the two Michelin-starred Gidleigh Park in Chagford with Michael Caines.

She has also cooked at the Five Bells in Compton and in the past year has spent time as head chef of Hotel Meudon near Falmouth in Cornwall and at Colson’s Restaurant at Hotel Indigo Exeter.

Before working as a chef, Vincent completed a master’s degree in psychology and human biology before joining the Royal Logistics Corp of the British Army.

Rose said Vincent's passion for south-west produce had made her the right fit for the Candlelight Inn.

He added: “Having Charlotte join the team is a chance to bring beautiful, high quality new dishes to our menu. We are very excited about this next chapter in the Candlelight Inn story and we welcome Charlotte with open arms.”

Vincent grew up in Exeter and has twice appeared on Great British Menu, representing the south-west region.

Vincent said: "I'm so happy to be part of the Candlelight Team. I have admired them over the years, and this is now a chance for me to put my stamp on the Candlelight experience. I am excited to make the most of their beautiful home grown herbs and vegetables. The team are a talented bunch who I am looking forward to producing incredible food with.”