An award-winning hotel and restaurant in Suffolk has announced a new head chef has joined the team. 

Mark Tomeo has taken over as executive head chef at Squires Restaurant at Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa in Newmarket. 

The chef has more than 30 years of culinary experience and has lead kitchens in renowned establishments, including The George Hotel in Stamford and The Blue Bell in Glinton. 

Squires Restaurant has been awarded two AA Rosettes for sourcing local ingredients and serving high quality meals. 

Chef Mark Tomeo has three decades of culinary experienceChef Mark Tomeo has three decades of culinary experience (Image: Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa)

Chef Tomeo was raised in Tottenham and was influenced by his Italian heritage to start his culinary career.

In his new role he will explore and aims to immerse himself in the local produce Suffolk has to offer.

"My vision for the menu at Squires is to ensure every guest finds something they love," said the head chef. 

"I aim to create a diverse menu with high-quality, locally sourced produce that offers ample choices and adaptability, making it easy for anyone to say, 'yes I will have that'."