Liam Finnegan appointed group executive chef of the Michael Caines Collection

Liam Finnegan has been appointed group executive chef of the Michael Caines Collection, comprising Lympstone Manor, the Cove at Maenporth, and two new projects in Porthleven and Exmouth.

Finnegan worked at Gidleigh Park in Devon before embarking on an eight-year stint as head chef of the Castle hotel in Taunton, Somerset.

He said: "Coming back to work for Michael and with the team is very exciting. I have great memories from my formative years at Gidleigh Park 14 years ago!

"It's a testament to the company to see so many familiar faces still working for Michael. I have been watching the brand grow from afar with admiration and I'm really excited about the appointment.

"I can't wait to start building relationships with the team and customers alike and ultimately cook some fantastic food."

Caines added: "It is great to have Liam join as group executive chef for the Michael Caines Collection. Liam joins us at an exciting time with the impending opening of Porthleven and in advance of the Exmouth project due to open early 2021, bringing the total collection to four sites.

"Since working with me at Gidleigh Park, Liam will be bringing with him an exciting dynamic of maturity, skill and experience from his most recent role as head chef at the Castle hotel Taunton and Brazz brasserie."

Caines acquired Rick Stein's Porthleven restaurant last month to open one of his two planned sites.

Finnegan has been replaced at the Castle hotel by his sous chef John Godfrey.