Wealden MP Nus Ghani was delighted to present four pub chefs with awards recognising their outstanding service to Wealden.
They had been nominated for Pub Chef of the Year by people across Wealden, who chose their favourite pubs for food, drink and hospitality.
Nus visited the Griffin Inn, in Fletching, famous for its crab linguine. A charming local village pub, with a spacious garden and family area, as well as a comprehensive wine and beer collection, the Griffin Inn’s chef, Ben West, is well-deserving of this recognition for the large variety of food on offer.
Nus returned to The Laughing Fish, in Isfield, renowned locally for the excellent pies on offer. It also offers a book swap service, and the pub is always busy with locals eating and drinking, as well as a corner for knitting, where Nus was able to do a ‘knit one purl one’ challenge. Nus presented chefs Henry Brooks and Richard Harvey with their certificates.
Nus presented two certificates to the chefs at The Highlands Inn, in Uckfield, who do an especially good lamb shank dish, with fantastic chocolate brownies for dessert. With a large seating area and a relaxed family atmosphere, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. Chefs Harry Merrett and Gary Harnblow serve an amazing menu, and Nus was delighted to recognise them in this way.
Nus was not surprised to be back at The Hare & Hounds, in Framfield, famous for its comforting and traditional liver and onion dish. The atmosphere is cosy, with plenty of outdoor seating. Nus met with owner Annie Saunders and the team to present the award certificate.
It’s easy to see why these pubs are so popular with local Wealden residents. They all offer a wonderful variety of fantastic food, in lovely and comfortable surroundings. Pubs across Wealden support more than 1,400 jobs, generating £2.5 million for the local economy.
Commenting on the nominations, Ms Ghani said: “I am grateful to everyone who supported their local pubs and let me know about the superb food and drink available across Wealden.
“We are lucky to have so many wonderful pubs in Wealden who do so much for the local economy and the communities in our towns and villages.
“I was delighted to congratulate The Griffin Inn, the Laughing Fish, the Highlands Inn and the Hare & Hounds for their nominations.
“I would encourage everyone to support their local pubs as they provide such a fantastic service.
“I’d also like to extend my thanks to Uckfield FM who generously supported and publicised the pub chef awards.”
