A MICHELIN-star chef has taken over a historic venue in a move which will see a number of new jobs created.

Kevin Tickle has bought the 17th century pub, The Crown Inn in High Newton, from the Kennedy family and will be running the new venture with his wife Nicola.

The new venue will have a focus on ‘foraged’ local food - sourcing food in the wild and incorporating them into his recipes.

The move is expected to see a significant investment in the site and new jobs created.

Mr Tickle’s previous roles have included head chef at The Forest Side in Grasmere where, within eight months of opening, he gained the restaurant a Michelin star, followed swiftly the following year by four AA rosettes for culinary excellence.

Prior to this he spent nine years working with Simon Rogan in Cartmel.

Mr and Mrs Tickle have ambitious plans for the venue including an overhauled kitchen which will offer quality food sourced locally from both trusted local producers and foraging expeditions.

The pair plan to establish a top-class restaurant at the venue, with an emphasis on quality food served in the slate flagged bar area and an interesting drinks selection.

Mr Tickle said: “The Crown is a great opportunity for us and I’m excited to take what we’ve learnt over the last 20 years and create our own dining destination.

“I’m passionate about the ingredients we have, literally on our doorstep, and can’t wait to get behind the stoves to create something interesting.

“There’s a lot of work to do before we open, but we’re looking forward to building a great team and make a real success of The Crown.”

Grahame Latus, chief executive of Enterprise Answers, which provides a range of funding to businesses across the North, said: “This was just the type of project we’re keen to support – one which offers local entrepreneurs the chance to build their business and attract people to the area, while creating jobs at the same time.

“We wish Kevin and Nicola all the best with their venture.”