Box Tree chef Lawrence Yates named Leslie Country Inns director
The Box Tree head chef Lawrence Yates has left the Michelin-starred Ilkley restaurant to join Yorkshire-based Leslie Country Inns as director.
Yates assumes the new role with a wealth of experience of working in the kitchens of Michelin-starred establishments, including two stints at Daniel Clifford's two-star Midsummer House in Cambridge.
He has also worked at Mark Poynton's Alimentum restaurant, also in Cambridge, the Vineyard at Stockcross, Whatley Manor hotel, and the Connaught hotel, and joined the Box Tree in 2013.
Yates is tasked with developing the Leslie Country Inns brand, including Yorkshire Pub of the Year finalist for 2015, the Woodman Inn in Thunderbridge, Kirkburton.
Commenting on the new appointment, Yates said he was thrilled to be joining Leslie Country Inns.
"I am looking forward to working with the fantastic team the company already has and to giving our guests a wonderful experience from locally brewed beers, great food, beautiful rooms, cottages and friendly service."
Managing director Craig Leslie, son of entrepreneur and former Huddersfield Town chairman Graham Leslie, added: "The board is delighted that Lawrence has joined our team to head up the Leslie Country Inns company as director, starting with the Woodman Inn, with the help of our general manager Chris McHugh. We are looking forward to a long and successful future."
Lawrence Yates named head chef at Michelin-starred Box Tree >>
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