Alex Bond and Stephen Lennox, owners of the historic 19th century inn Wild Swan in Minskip, near Boroughbridge, have welcomed back chef Paul Murphy for the first time in a year.
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Stephen said: “This is great news. Paul's return means the dream team of Paul and our loyal and popular resident chef Fraser Ross are reunited. We are planning for a busy summer ahead. This exciting appointment heralds an exciting new era for WildSwan.”
Paul, who has left the Aldwark Arms near Easingwold, renews his partnership with the award-winning Wild Swan.
Alex said: “When Paul first arrived with us in June 2022, he took Wild Swan to a whole new level in terms of food quality and presentation.
“This has been critical to establishing our company's excellent reputation, and thanks in large part to Fraser's loyalty and dedication, we have been able to maintain that reputation in his absence.”
Paul has previously built the acclaimed Timble Inn, near Otley, from scratch into a five-star hotel, and the Michelin-starred York Arms, near Pateley Bridge, where he created legendary chef Francis. He has experience including working with Atkins, and said, “I'm really happy to be back.''
“The last time I was here I felt so at home thanks to the friendly Minskip community. I'll never forget the welcome I received and it's one of the main reasons I kept coming back.” Paul said.
“Once again, I am determined to provide Minskip and the surrounding area with an inn to be proud of. I have looked carefully at the menu, maintaining old favorites while introducing some exciting new dishes. As always, my goal is to create fun and imaginative dishes at competitive prices.
“As before, Alex and Stephen have given me and Fraser a blank canvas. Together with general manager Nathan Wake, they have ensured that Wild Swan will become the heart of the Minskip community and loved by the villagers. I have made sure that I am taken care of.”
Stephen said: “We are proud that Wild Swan is the heart of Minskip, a place where villagers can enjoy a quiet drink or two and where the local community feels comfortable and relaxed. We are committed to supporting and supporting our community.”
Robert Beaumont, warden at St John's Church in Minskip, said: “Wild Swan is a great example of what a great local inn should be. While many villages are losing these valuable assets, Wild Swan continues to go from strength to strength. Paul His return is great news.”
