Aiden Byrne leaves the Church Green pub in Cheshire after 16 years

Chef Aiden Byrne has announced he will "step away" from the Cheshire gastropub he has run for the past 16 years.

The former Great British Menu finalist left his head chef role at the Dorchester hotel’s Grill restaurant in 2008 to run the Church Green in Lymm alongside his wife Sarah.

Since launching the Church Green, Aiden has worked for D&D London’s 20 Stories in Manchester and also ran Restaurant MCR, which closed in 2020.

In a statement on Instagram, Aiden wrote: "After 16 incredible years, Sarah and I have reached the bittersweet decision to step away from the Church Green on the 19th of May. This journey has been filled with countless memories, laughter, and shared moments that we will forever cherish.

"We want to extend our deepest gratitude to each one of you—our amazing customers, dedicated suppliers, and invaluable team members—for your unwavering support and commitment to TCG and the vibrant community of Lymm Village. Your patronage and friendship have been the heart and soul of this establishment, and we are endlessly grateful for the relationships we’ve built over the years."

Aiden said he now planned to pursue other opportunities while the Church Green will come under "the care of another independent operator".

"We have every confidence that you will be in excellent hands, and we eagerly anticipate the exciting journey ahead for all involved," he added.

Prior to working at the Dorchester, Byrne was executive chef of Danesfield House hotel in Marlow and head chef of Tom Aikens’ eponymous restaurant in London’s Chelsea.