REGIONAL finalist in 'The Great British Menu' TV show John Hooker has joined Lewtrenchard Manor as head chef.

Previously, John worked as executive head chef at Browns Hotel, Tavistock, and prior to that as head chef at 22 Mill Street, Chagford.

He started winning awards for his cooking back in 2004, when he was the southern regional finalist at the 'Young chef of the year 2004'.

He was also featured in the Hospitality Show 2005 'Master Chefs of Great Britain', the British food challenge.

Last year when John appeared in BBC2's Great British Menu series 5, he represented the South West Region and was the regional finalist.

He was also featured last week in this year's series.

Last weekend, John could be seen during cooking demonstrations at the food festival being held at Dingles Fairground Heritage Centre, along with other top local professionals.