A popular chef has joined forces with the owners of an historic Cumbrian home to run its revamped restaurant.

Simon Haslam, who previously owned the Waterfront in Whitehaven, will take over the De Millom restaurant at Moresby Hall.

Owners Jane and David Saxon built up a relationship with Simon over the eight years he ran the harbour side restaurant, which closed in January.

Simon said: "The Waterfront sort of spiralled - we opened it as a first business, as essentially a practice and it took off in a way we never could have imagined.

"I've got three small children and both my partner and myself were working 70 to 80-hour weeks. It comes to the stage when you think, this isn't fair on the kids."

When Jane heard that Simon was looking for a change in direction, she decided to get in touch.

Simon said: "While I don't think I would be able to completely give up catering and cooking, I wasn't looking for a full-time 50 hours a week in a kitchen job. I've done that for 20 years and I was ready for a different challenge.

"What Jane suggested was very interesting and exciting and stimulating."

Jane said: "David and I are much the same - we work long hours and we're looking for someone to take one particular department of what we're doing and develop part of the business further.

"Dining, events, all of the food aspect is a big part for us. We just felt we were at the stage where we wanted more than a head chef."

Simon's new role will be executive head chef and manager.

He said: "It's something I've done before and look forward to developing a bit more and also to take the pressure off Jane and David."

Jane said: "Simon's worked in some fantastic hotels. We're not a big hotel so there's not going to be anything happening here that surprises him."

She said they would like to develop the hall, which is currently known for its small weddings, conferences and family occasions, to include a "more contemporary offer".

The dining room, drawing room, and lobby area are all currently being refurbished and will re-open on September 15.

There will be two menu styles for diners to choose from - one with a fine dining option, and another with more informal, classic dishes.

There will also be a wide range of drinks and cocktails and there are plans to start serving Sunday lunch from November.

Simon said: "Speaking to Jane and David about the hopes and visions for the restaurant - it's exactly the same direction that I would want to take Moresby Hall in."

Jane said they were keen to let Simon put his own stamp on the restaurant but he has stressed that he will not be re-creating The Waterfront.

He said: "It's a new entity. It's a new journey we're all embarking on."

The De Millom restaurant can seat up to 32 people and an additional 14 can be accommodated in a private dining area, which is suited for corporate dining and family occasions.

"The intention for us isn't to rush guests out it's for them to be able to be here and relax and enjoy the ambience," Jane added.

To keep up to date with Moresby Hall, visit www.moresbyhall.co.uk or search for Moresby Hall on Facebook.