CHRIS Harrod, who trained under the world famous Raymond Blanc at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, has become chef owner at the Michelinstarred Monmouthshire restaurant with rooms, The Crown at Whitebrook.

Chris, aged 39, is originally from Worcestershire, and comes to Monmouthshire from Denbighshire, north Wales, where he was consultant chef at Lord Newborough’s Rhug Estate Organic.

The Crown at Whitebrook, near Monmouth, is recognised as among the best restaurants in the UK, holding a Michelin star for seven successive years under previous head chef, James Sommerin.

It will open for business from October with Chris as chef owner and a completely new team, but bookings are being taken now.

Chris, who will live on site, said: “Becoming chef patron at The Crown at Whitebrook is quite simply a dream come true for me.

“I had been looking for a restaurant in Buckinghamshire, a country retreat in the Chiltern Hills with the potential to add rooms.

“I’d drawn a complete blank and then a friend mentioned The Crown at Whitebrook.

“I took a look and was amazed to find that it fits the bill right down the ground. I just can’t wait to get started.”

“I and my team are going into the Crown at Whitebrook to offer our very best. If we deliver that then I am confident that we will regain the reputation the restaurant has enjoyed previously.”