THE chef behind the successful Methuen Arms in Corsham has been presented with a certificate for being nominated for the Parliamentary Pub Chef of the Year.

Although Leigh Evans did not advance to the final stages, MP Michelle Donelan wanted to recognise the pub's food, beer, wines, and welcoming and warm environment.

Leigh, who reached the quarter finals on Master Chef the Professionals in 2008 said, “Business is increasing rapidly, along with reputation. We are attracting national recognition, so are making big strides in getting this place where it deserves to be.”

Michelle Donelan MP, who nominated Mr Evans for the award, said: “Pubs are of huge importance to my constituency for the role they play within the community and the benefit they add to both the local and national economy.

"My constituency has many outstanding chefs and I was delighted to nominate Chef Leigh Evans of The Methuen Arms for the Pub Chef Awards 2017/18.

"Not only has he taken on many apprenticeships, Leigh also provides fantastic training for new starters. As a result of this, a large number of pubs in my constituency are now staffed and managed by those he trained.

"We have also held a number of events at the Methuen Arms and I have always been impressed by the consistently high standard of food and its warm and welcoming environment.”