Chef Will Holland to leave La Bécasse

Will Holland, chef-patron of La Bécasse in Ludlow, Shropshire - part of the 10 in 8 Group - is to leave the restaurant after six years to pursue new opportunities.

The former Acorn winner joined the Michelin-starred restaurant L'Ortolan in Reading as sous chef in 2004 and after a few months chef-patron Alan Murchison promoted him to head chef.

In 2007, Murchison took over the former Hibiscus site in Ludlow in 2007 to launch a second restaurant and put Holland in charge.

La Bécasse went on to win a number of accolades and awards, including three AA rosettes and a Michelin star in 2009, just 18 months after opening.

Holland said: "Working for Alan for 10 years has been a truly inspirational experience - especially the last six years when I have had the privilege of running one of his restaurants.

"I have benefitted from Alan's relentless drive and determination, and the persistent faith and trust he has put in me have been very humbling. I have always had great respect for Alan, however the time has come when we need to travel in different directions.

"I look forward to enjoying my final months cooking at La Bécasse and I wish the restaurant the very best of luck for the next chapter of its story," he added.

Murchison commented: "Will has done an amazing job - starting up an aspirational restaurant, creating a strong brand, developing and nurturing great talent and producing innovative and exciting food using the very best of local produce. He has put La Bécasse firmly on the culinary map.

"I wish Will the very best in the next stage of his culinary journey and in the future. He has been a huge asset to my business and his presence will be missed as a close friend and inspirational work colleague."

Holland will leave La Bécasse in September.