Andrew Nutter to open gastropub

Rochdale chef Andrew Nutter has made a move into the gastropub market after taking over the Bird I'th Hand pub in nearby Birtle, Lancashire.

The chef proprietor of Nutters, in Rochdale, plans to refurbish the stone property ahead of launch in the Spring, reported the Manchester Evening News.

Nutter is expected to apply for planning permission to extend the existing kitchen and revamp the first floor in order to accommodate up to 100 covers.

Commenting on the new venture, Nutter said: "When we're full at Nutters, there's nowhere decent nearby that we felt we could recommend for food for our customers. So we thought why not do a great dining pub? Somewhere not as formal as Nutters, but still with great food.

"It will be classic pub dishes, but in a more refined and sophisticated manner. And I've got plans to create a champagne terrace at the rear of the venue too because the views really are beautiful here."

A new name for the pub is yet to be decided.