Acclaimed celebrity chef and Lympstone Manor owner, Michael Caines has announced the appointment of Liam Finnegan as Group Executive Chef of the Michael Caines Collection.

The news follows the resumption of work on Michael's new restaurant in the Sideshore development on Exmouth seafront and his recent acquisition of the former Rick Stein Restaurant in Porthleven, Cornwall.

With a working relationship spanning 14 years, Liam's appointment is a natural fit for Michael and the wider collection, following an eight-year stint as Head Chef at The Castle Hotel Taunton and prior to that under Michael's tutelage at Gidleigh Park.

Reflecting on the appointment, Liam Finnegan 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 with the appointment. I can't wait to start building relationships with the team and customers alike and ultimately cook some fantastic food."

Chef Michael Caines said: "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.

"I'm excited to be working closely with Liam across the multiple properties and further developing the Michael Caines dining concept."

The Michael Caines Collection currently comprises of luxury country house hotel and restaurant Lympstone Manor, The Cove at Maenporth, and two new projects in Porthleven and Exmouth.