THE Coniston Hotel Country Estate and Spa near Skipton has appointed Mark Wells as its new food and beverage manager.

The 29-year-old has been the award-winning hotel's deputy manager for two years, and previously held posts on the Fylde coast and in the Lake District.

His new role will involve overseeing three restaurants at the site, as well as the conference and banqueting operation.

He will also be responsible for the management and training of 45 food and beverage staff members.

Mark said: "I am delighted to take on this new role at The Coniston. The food and beverage team have a great reputation for service and I’m looking forward to working with them in developing and creating the restaurant identities.

“I will be developing wine lists to complement the dishes on our new menus perfectly and we will be working to evolve our staff and educate them on the food and beverages we serve."

His promotion comes after the recent appointment of executive head chef Simon Bolsover.

The hotel's managing director Louise Bolton said: “We are proud to offer a dining experience with a difference at The Coniston and this is down to our fantastic team. They are exceptionally passionate about the service and food we deliver, so to have someone with Mark’s experience and enthusiasm leading from the front is great news for us.

“Our current focus is on building and investing within our teams, kitchens and dining across the hotel. The combination of Simon and Mark’s skills and knowledge will undoubtedly raise the bar of our offering.”