FORTY eight hours in a day might possibly be on the wish-list for Julie Leivers and Damien Pease — the new owners of one of Devon's most famous restaurants.

The couple have just bought the Horn of Plenty — a name synonymous with fine dining for more than 40 years — and are embarking on a complete change of lifestyle to boot.

Both originally from Yorkshire, Julie and Damien had been enjoying home-counties, high-flying corporate lifestyles in marketing and accountancy. But the nagging desire for a change of pace and direction eventually became too sharp to ignore.

Julie, 48, said: 'Damien quit his job last January to look full-time for somewhere and by September, it was clear we had to make the commitment, so we moved to Slapton to focus completely.'

The Horn of Plenty — a former mine captain's house with stunning views over the Tamar Valley — had been on the market for some time, but completely bowled Damien and Julie for six.

'We wanted a hotel but the bonus here is this fantastic restaurant,' said Julie. 'It's a huge pull for people, and once they've come here, they come again — the return business is huge.

'We love the fact that there have only been three owners, who have all done good stints here — the quality of the place really speaks for itself.

'Plus we have a really well-established stable team of staff. We have loads of business experience, but the team here really know how to run a restaurant and hotel — which we've never done!'

Damien, 40, said: 'They go the extra mile — we have one guy that will come in on his days off and offer to do stuff.

'We saw a lot of similar types of hotel when we were looking, but the staff didn't have the passion that the team has here. They are really special, they socialise with each other, they are like a big family.'

Julie and Damien have now moved to Yelverton. Just a few weeks into their new full-time career as hoteliers, they are clearly energised by their new challenge.

While anxious to reassure their staff and regular clientele that no big changes are planned, they have welcomed feedback and are 'feeling their way' — backed by the very welcome support of Peter Gorton, Masterchef and previous co-owner of The Horn.

Julie said: 'One of the big pluses for us is that Peter was happy to stay on as a consultant for a while. That's been hugely comforting. He's done such a fantastic job here and he's been brilliant, telling us what not to worry about — and what we can worry about!'

Stuart Downie, 27, head chef at The Horn for the last year, is also looking forward to a new era — and to making a name for himself.

'Taking over from Peter and stepping into the limelight myself is a big move. I'm looking forward to maintaining our three rosettes — but my ambition is to bring the Michelin star back to the Horn,' he said.

Julie said although newcomers to the trade, they were keen to make their mark, while maintaining the policies that have made The Horn such a favourite — including sourcing the best quality ingredients from local suppliers.

'We are pretty sure we have one of the top five restaurants in Devon — the goal is to maintain that, and also make it one of the best hotels,' she said.

As Damien acknowledged, scoring that goal will be a learning process.

'I am really, really enjoying it. We want to do so much, and we'd need 48 hours in the day. It's also a case of learning how to prioritise it.

'We want to make it work, we want to make it a success and not just for us, with 30 people here, there's a lot of people to look after.'

The couple have been delighted by the warm welcome they have received — from their new neighbours in Yelverton, from the customers, suppliers and staff.

Damien said: 'We have moved so many times in the last six years. This is our chance to become part of the community.

'We thought it would take us years, but we are meeting so many people already, they have been so welcoming, both here and at home, that actually it feels as though it might be quite easy.'

Julie and Damien's popular predecessor, Peter Gorton, said he wished the couple every success and happiness at the hotel which had been his life for the last 20 years.

'It's really time for a change, and a bit of a rest for me,' said Peter.

'I will be there to support them for a while — they are a lovely couple and I hope they do really well.'

And Peter said he wanted to pay tribute to the customers who have supported him over the years.

'Tavistock people really got behind me and I want them to know how grateful I am.

'It's lovely that people come from far away, but I remember when we had foot and mouth, if it hadn't have been for our local people, it would have been a nightmare.

'They've always supported us and I hope the Horn will continue to have that sort of support, and go from strength to strength.'