The Brewery Arts Centre in Kendal is relaunching the menu at its Grainstore Restaurant today following the appointment of a new head chef.

Mark Robson has joined The Brewery from the Wheatsheaf Inn at Brigsteer.

His new menu makes maximum use of locally-sourced produce.

Examples of dishes include crayfish popcorn, chorizo Scotch egg with black pudding, cider braised pork belly and home smoked mackerel pate.

Mr Robson's first job in hospitality was as a kitchen porter at The Gateway Inn in Kendal. He honed his skills as a chef at More? Artisan Bakery in Staveley.

He said: “I’ve really enjoyed my first few weeks at the Brewery getting to know the team and shaping up the new menu.

“I’m looking forward to refining it over the coming months.

“The wealth of fantastic ingredients on our doorstep in Cumbria means that dishes will change often throughout the year.

“My food philosophy is very much respect the food and always use it fresh and my favourite chefs are Daniel Clifford and Tom Kerridge, both of who have done wonders raising the profile of British cooking to a new level.”

As well as contemporary cuisine, the menu features classic British favourites such as fish, chips and mushy peas, burgers, and Mr Robson's signature dish, 16-hour braised beef shin cottage pie.

Diners will also be able to sample a tasting menu with sharing platters showcasing the finest in local meats and seafood.

Brewery catering manager Mark Marriott said: “We have a great reputation locally for our pizzas and we do very well in the restaurant providing pre-show meals for customers coming to see gigs.

"But we are sure Mark’s new menu will attract people who want to enjoy just a meal, a drink in the unique Brewery atmosphere.”