Marco Pierre White picks chef and manager for his new venture

Marco Pierre White has handpicked a North West duo to head up his new venue in Aughton, Lancashire.

The TV chef's latest venture, Marco Pierre White at The Swan Inn, opens next Monday (25 January) and he has personally appointed Simon Bower and David Thorneycroft to the roles of executive chef and general manager respectively.

Bolton-born Simon is a Michelin-starred chef with more than 20 years experience, including seven years as joint head chef at the prestigious Northcote Manor. He has previously worked under White at his London restaurants and was recommended for the role by Neil Thornley, Executive Chef at White's Yew Tree restaurant in Berkshire. 

Liverpool-born David was handed the general manager role after impressing Marco at interview and after working at Marco's Wheeler's of St James Restaurant in London. Demonstrating a vast knowledge of the industry, Marco said his drive and commitment to service mirrored his own.

Whilst visiting the Swan last week to check on progress, Marco said: "With a week to go, we're all set to hit the ground running, the team is prepared and eager to welcome guests.

"David and Simon are fantastic, I interviewed candidates from across the country and they were the two that stood out with regard to ambition, enthusiasm and the ability to deliver quality food and exceptional service.

"I'm really enjoying working with them, there are no egos involved, just willingness to learn and a determination to make The Swan Inn one of the best venues in the area"

Simon said: "I'm delighted to be joining Marco's team and helping to establish his first North West venue. I've worked in the industry for many years and have had the pleasure of working with some of the best chefs in the business, but Marco is something else. I feel privileged to be working alongside him to bring affordable luxury to the market."

David said: "Marco expects standards that exceed all others. Working at the coalface of his London venue was priceless and something that will benefit all of our staff.

David was keen to emphasise that the Swan Inn will offer what Marco terms "Affordable Luxury" to all: "The Swan Inn will offer affordable quality food in the relaxed ambience of a local inn. It's a venue for all occasions and we want guests to pop in for anything, whether it be a pint of beer, a bottle of champagne, fish pie or a fillet steak."

Marco Pierre White at The Swan Inn represents a significant coup for Sanguine Hospitality which, with the help of Marco's long-standing friend and local restaurant entrepreneur Francis Carroll, successfully enticed the Hell's Kitchen star to embark on his first UK venture outside the South of England.

His second restaurant – Marco Pierre White Steakhouse, Bar & Grill at the Doubletree by Hilton Chester – will open later this month.

Words: Clare Riley

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