in brief
Lakeside Masterclasses
Steven Doherty, chef-proprietor of the Punchbowl Inn, Crosthwaite, Cumbria, and the Spread Eagle, Sawley, Lancashire, has launched a series of one-day masterclasses aimed at what he calls "serious amateur foodies".
To be held from 6 March at Lakeshore House on the shores of Lake Windermere, the series will feature seasonal recipes, and some events will include demonstrations by a guest chef.
For further information, call Lakeshore House on 01539 433202.
Ford Drives further West
Tim Ford, former head chef at Summer Lodge hotel, Evershot, Dorset, has taken over as chef-proprietor of two-AA-rosette, six-bedroom Little Barwick House in Somerset.
Ford will offer a modern English menu in the 40-seat restaurant, with the help of his former Summer Lodge colleagues, Stuart Judge and Maxine Perrier.
Ford has been replaced at Summer Lodge by Gregory Nicholson, previously head chef at 1837 restaurant in Brown's hotel, London, and runner-up in the recent ITV Chef of the Year competition.