Michael Wignall to take on the Angel Inn at Hetton

Chef Michael Wignall and his wife Johanna have partnered with James and Jo Wellock to take on the Angel Inn at Hetton in North Yorkshire.

The former Gidleigh Park executive chef plans to run the pub with rooms as it is until the new year, when the site will be closed for refurbishment to create a fine-dining space alongside the pub, subject to the necessary consents.

Wignall and James Wellock, who runs the £55m-turnover family-owned produce business Wellocks, are due to complete the purchase of the 15th-century, nine-bedroom property next month.

Michael Wignall will run the business alongside his wife Johanna, who has also worked with her husband at Gidleigh Park in Chagford, Devon, and at the Latymer at Pennyhill Park in Bagshot, Surrey. The pair's efforts secured two Michelin stars at both restaurants.

Wignall said: "There is so much affection for the Angel at Hetton and it's an absolute privilege to take over the reins of this building and play a part in its history and culinary heritage.

"I can't wait to get back behind the stove and work on dishes for the fine-dining restaurant as well as creating something slightly different for the pub. My food has always been inspired by the fabulous produce that has surrounded me throughout my culinary journey and I couldn't be in a more stunning setting than Hetton."

The Angel Inn was made famous by the late chef Denis Watkins and his wife Juliet in the 1980s, who developed what was considered to be the original gastropub. Juliet currently runs the business with their son Pascal.

Michael Wignall departs Gidleigh Park for solo venture >>

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