Middleton Hall Retirement Village appoint new head chef

Mark Bennett, originally from Scarborough but now living in Middlesbrough, has joined Middleton Hall Retirement Village, near Darlington, as their new head chef.

He has had a varied career, cooking at some of the UK’s most prestigious events such as the Yorkshire Show and the Paris Air Show.Head Chef Mark Bennett, estates manager Bryan Moore and gardener Louise Murphy (Image: Tracy Kidd)

The Scarborough College graduate has even cooked for Queen Elizabeth II and the then Prince Charles, as well as former US presidents Bill Clinton and George Bush.

He has also worked at the first Ashes Test Match at Durham Cricket Club in Chester-le-Street, where he cooked for cricket legends such as Shane Warne.

Mr Bennett said: “I’ve been fortunate to cook for people from all walks of life – even former US Presidents Bill Clinton and George Bush.

“But my heart lies in creating great food for the local community, and my new role at Middleton Hall Retirement Village gives me the opportunity to do just that.”Middleton Hall Retirement Village (Image: Stuart Boulton)

Mr Bennett’s new role will see him take control of all food aspects at the retirement village.

This includes food options for luxury care residents, menus for the Orangery bistro, and a calendar of themed restaurant nights.

He has already started revamping the menus at the Orangery bistro and planning restaurant night events where diners can meet the chefs behind the dishes.The restyled Orangery bistro at Middleton Hall Retirement Village (Image: Supplied)

Mr Bennett is also working with the Middleton Hall Estates team to incorporate more home-grown ingredients into meals from the team’s kitchen garden.

He said: “It’s not just about food – it’s about community, consistency, and care.

“We’re aiming to create a dining experience that brings people together and we are looking forward to welcoming more people from the surrounding areas.

“My new role is also an opportunity for me to give something back and use the experience I have gained throughout my career to date to help develop and support my new team.”

Mr Bennett has also spent eight years with Ramside Estates, overseeing three restaurants and managing large kitchen teams, as well as working at the Majestic Hotel in Harrogate, part of the Cairn Group.

He has a passion for seafood, developed from living near the sea, and enjoys walking, exploring the coast, and dining out with his family, with a son on a rugby scholarship and a daughter still in school.

Adam Wardale, director of hospitality at Middleton Hall Retirement Village, said: “We’re really excited to welcome Mark as our new head chef.

“He brings a fantastic mix of experience, creativity, and a genuine passion for great food.

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“His focus on local produce, thoughtful preparation and his extensive background in high-level cuisine reflect our commitment to delivering the best possible experience for everyone who lives here and visits us.

“We’re confident that residents and guests alike will notice and enjoy the difference he makes.”

Asked for his advice for home cooks, Mr Bennett said: “Preparation is everything.

“I also clean and wash up as I go so that we can enjoy the meal without having to think about having to wash up afterwards.”