JAKE JONES has been appointed head chef of the James Martin Restaurant at the Talbot Hotel, in Malton. Jake joined the Talbot Hotel in July 2012 having already gained considerable experience in leading kitchens, including the Michelin-starred L’Enclume in Cumbria.

Within three months of working with James Martin’s team, he was appointed sous chef. Alongside all the chefs at the Talbot, he has received additional specific training, including management skills, and he proved to be a valuable number two. General manager David Macdonald said: “Jake was absolutely our first choice to take over as head chef and I look forward to exciting times ahead as he continues to work alongside James raising our standards even higher.”

Jake, 23, was a finalist in Young Chef of the Year and he was deemed as “one to watch”. When the celebrated Pierre Koffman, regarded by many as the chefs’ chef, visited the hotel, he spent time with Jake and commended him for his ability and talent.

Jake said: “It’s the guests’ pleasure and satisfaction that matters most to me. The kitchen is buzzing with enthusiasm and we’ve a great team, and I’m just enjoying the challenge of taking things forward.”

James Martin, who has been instrumental in Jake’s appointment said: “Jake’s progression is testimony to the quality within our own team and to the training we give to all the chefs here, enabling them to learn and grow in our own kitchen.”

Jake follows Craig Atchinson who has moved to take up a corporate position closer to his home in York.