James Checkley appointed head chef of the Coach House by Michael Caines

James Checkley has been appointed head chef of the Coach House by Michael Caines in the grounds of Kentisbury Grange hotel, north Devon.

Checkley has worked his way up the ranks having worked in Caines' restaurant team at ABode Exeter before joining the three-AA rosette Coach House in 2016.

He said: "Having worked with Michael Caines for many years, I'm truly humbled to be given the role of head chef at the Coach House by Michael Caines. I began working with this team as chef de partie and have pushed myself, with the guidance and support of the rest of my team, to achieve this exciting role.

"Having lived and worked in the south west for most of my life, I feel it's only right to take the next step in my career in this beautiful area, where I can take advantage of the stunning local produce on offer."

Michael Caines is chef-patron of the 21-bedroom, Michelin-starred Lympstone Manor country house hotel, which he opened in April 2017.

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