BRUCE Theobald has returned to his role as head chef at the Michelin Bib Gourmand awarded Seaview Hotel.

The hotel secured a culinary first for the Isle of Wight when the restaurant was awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand under him, and he continued to work at the hotel for three years before going

on to become head chef at Danesfield House, the prestigious country house hotel located in Marlow.

Bruce said: "It’s been a fantastic learning experience working at Danesfield House, which has more than 90 rooms, but I just felt the time was right to look for a position back on the Island to spend more time with my family and the hotel that has meant so much to me.”

Bruce fell in love with the Island five years ago when he moved down and has been commuting to Marlow rather than relocate.

He said: “I take my chef’s hat off to Tom Bull who has done a fantastic job moving the food operation in the right direction and retaining the Michelin Bib Gourmand.

"It was a pleasure to meet the new team and it felt very lovely to receive such a warm welcome back.”

Hotel operations manager, Diana Chiverton, said: “Bruce was instrumental in transforming the food offering at the Seaview Hotel.

"He has vision, determination and a big heart. I really look forward to the next stage and pushing the hotel forward.”

There are 132 Michelin Bib Gourmand venues in the UK. The Seaview Hotel was the first — and so far only — Isle of Wight venue to be awarded.

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