Fresh start for pub after sudden death of landlord

NEW LICENSEE WANTS TO CONTINUE LEGACY OF FORMER ROYAL CHEF

- By LYNETTE PINCHESS

A POPULAR country pub that has been closed for eight months following the sudden death of the owner is about to begin a new chapter.

Former royal chef Des Sweeney ran the Cross Keys in Epperstone for nine years until he died last October.

The 60-year-old had worked in the industry for 40 years, including stints in the kitchens of Buckingham Palace, the House of Lords and the QE2.

He was a mentor to many young people, nurturing their careers in hospitality. It's one of those former apprentices that hopes to build on Des's legacy when he reopens the village pub.

Adam Godfrey said he's proud to be taking over as the new landlord. He was a young chef when he first met Des 20 years ago. As well as being a huge influence in his professional life, the two became firm friends.

It marks an expansion for Adam and his business partner James McDermott, who also run the Good Fellow George in Canning Circus.