Welsh chefs begin a five-star celebration

Chefs were celebrating in Wales last week after learning that the number of starred restaurants in the country had jumped from one to five.

One winner was the nine-bedroom Ynyshir Hall in Machynlleth, whose chef is Les Rennie.

Joan Reen, who has owned the property with her husband Rob for 13 years, said that the news was particularly welcome because it followed a difficult year. She estimated that she and her husband lost £70,000 in turnover last year because of the foot-and-mouth outbreak.

She said: "We are pleased for ourselves and we are pleased for Wales. It is just wonderful news. People can now visit Wales and enjoy a wonderful culinary tour."

Other stars went to the Old Rectory country house in Conwy, Carlton House in Llanwrtyd Wells, Plas Bodegroes in Pwllheli and the Walnut Tree Inn in Abergavenny.

Stephen Terry and his business partner Francesco Mattioli bought the Walnut Tree last year from its founders, Ann and Franco Taruschio, who have retired. Terry previously worked at a number of London restaurants, including The Canteen, where he gained a Michelin star.

The Old Rectory retained its star for a third year but Llangoed Hall in Llyswen was demoted and lost its star.