James Durrant to close Plough Inn in Hampshire

Chef-patron James Durrant has made the "difficult decision" to close the Plough Inn in Hampshire and will be returning to work in London in the New Year.

The former Acorn winner and 2014 Great British Menu main course winner said the restaurant would hold its final lunch service on Christmas Eve.

He told The Caterer: "Unfortunately, I don't see a future here as it's not going to financially look after me and the family. We need something a bit more secure.

"I really wanted the Plough Inn to be successful and we have worked so hard to gradually build up its reputation over the years. It has been fantastic and I have enjoyed every minute. But if I can't fill the restaurant seven days a week, even with the exposure I've been fortunate enough to have, then I'm not sure what else to do."

He added: "In hindsight it might have been a romantic idea; I think it comes down to location and I just can't seem to make it work. Lunch trade has always been great and weekends are packed, but we struggle to fill the place during weekday evenings. We thought we would have regular trade with the pub but it doesn't appear to be the culture here."

Durrant said he had plans to take a new job in London next year, although was currently unable to reveal specific details.

He added: "It was such a hard decision to break the news to my team as they have all been amazing and worked really well together. They are all very talented and I will help them as much as I can."

Durrant took over the Plough Inn at Longparish in March 2012.

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