Laybourne signs for Newcastle

Chef Terry Laybourne has been signed by Newcastle United Football Club to act as a consultant for its St James' Park stadium restaurant.

Laybourne, a Newcastle United supporter, takes over the consultancy role from chef Pat McDonald.

McDonald, of the Channel 4 television series If You Can't Stand The Heat, was the club's chef consultant for two years.

Robin Buchanan, general manager of catering at Newcastle United, said: "We put the consultancy contract out to tender. Pat submitted a proposal but we felt Terry's was the best."

Laybourne said: "I have been brought in because I have no experience of catering in football grounds and I think they want an untainted view."

The club's former restaurant, the Magpie Room, closed last month and has been converted into a function room. The 182-seat New Magpie Room has been built as part of a two-year, £46m redevelopment of the stadium. Laybourne is responsible for writing the menus and training the 20 staff, who include seven chefs.

Head chef is Ian Lowery, who worked for Laybourne as sous chef at his Newcastle restaurant 21 Queen Street.

by Louise Bozec louise.bozec@rbi.co.uk