Ale-infused ice cream is a hit

A Yorkshire pub chef has perked-up profits with his Cumberland Ale flavour ice cream. Ian Minto, who runs the Gray Ox at Liversedge, near Brighouse in West Yorkshire, has enjoyed sweet success since introducing his ale-infused dessert at the 100-cover pub. The ice cream, which is currently served as an accompaniment to sticky toffee pudding (£4.95), offers a "smooth yet slightly bitter taste" and has been a hit with customers, according to Minto.

Nye set to open second pub

Pub entrepreneur Cliff Nye is set to launch a second gastro pub in Hertfordshire. Nye,who runs the White Horse at Brancaster Staithe in Norfolk, is the new owner at the Fox at Willian, Hertfordshire. The pub, which is currently being refurbished to include a60-cover restaurant, will showcase freshfish and shellfish from local seafood suppliers according to Nye. Nye aims to offer a modern English menu with an emphasis on local produce. He said the pub will open in late April.

Virtual reality tool rolled out

Chefs can learn to cook using virtual reality technology as part of a new schemelaunched by Creative Learning Media (CLM). CLM has teamed up with Prue Leith and the British Food Trust to coach junior chefsusing "Photo Realistic 3D". The computer gadget will recreate a virtual kitchen allowing chefs to hone their cooking skills without creating any real-life washing up. Prue Leith, chairman of co-producers the British Food Trust, backed the technology, which she described as a "powerful tool for employers of all sizes". For more information visit www.creativelearningmedia.com