HUSBAND-and-wife team Bernd and Sharon Wolf have officially opened their new Birkenshaw restaurant, Grand Cru.

The couple have transformed one of the village's most prominent, but run-down premises by converting the former Co-op supermarket into a stylish new restaurant and bar.

Bernd, originally from Bavaria, is a classically-trained chef and has worked in some of Europe’s top hospitality venues. Sharon has also worked front of house for a number of award-winning restaurants.

Councillor Nigel Patrick, Deputy Mayor of Kirklees, joined the couple and guests in toasting the new restaurant’s success by opening a bottle of Grand Cru champagne.

Bernd said: “We are absolutely delighted that Grand Cru is now officially open and we took more than 300 bookings in just a few days after confirming the launch date.

“Yorkshire is home to some of the UK’s finest produce and we will be incorporating this into our innovative and exciting new menus, featuring locally-sourced meat, fish and vegetarian choices.

“Our diners can also complement their menu choices with our skilfully-chosen wine list, showcasing great classics and New World wines, and discover our exciting new cocktail bar.”

Before making the long-awaited move north to West Yorkshire, Bernd and Sharon ran the Orange Tree Restaurant near Torquay Harbour, which they ran for more than 12 years.

The couple secured a first-class reputation and were recognised and recommended by The Good Food Guide and Michelin within the first year. They also secured the Les Routiers’ Restaurant of the Year award and Gold status at the Restaurant of South Devon Awards.

The restaurant is to open its doors to customers tomorrow.