JAMES Martin is to step down from his role at the Talbot Hotel in Malton.

The television chef, who set up the hotel's kitchen prior to its launch in April 2012, has decided to leave the business where he was in charge of the menu creation and team development.

He was understood to be under a three year contract with the Talbot which both parties have decided not to renew.

Director and owner, of the Talbot, Tom Naylor-Leyland, said: "James's fantastic contribution to the success of the hotel and restaurant is without measure and I am sure we would not have reached such a strong position without his expertise and advice.

" It’s been a real pleasure working with such a professional and well renowned chef."

He added: "On behalf of everyone at the Talbot I would like to thank James for all his support which has been tremendous. He leaves us with an established hotel offering great food.

"We will continue to maintain his ethos of high standards throughout."

David MacDonald, general manager said: "Thank you James for a fab three years. You've left a brilliant kitchen team in place. Here's to the next three years of continuing to serve Yorkshire food in the restaurant at the Talbot."

James, who grew up in the Malton area, said: “Over the last three years we have worked extremely hard on the offer at the Talbot Hotel with amazing success and I look forward to seeing the path it takes in the future.”