Bunn takes to Chasers' helm

Darren "Bunny" Bunn, who was chef patron at the Michelin-starred Greyhound in Stockbrige, Hampshire, has bought a leasehold in Devon.

Bunn paid an undisclosed sum for the Chasers Arms in Stokeinteignhead near Newton Abbot. "This is the first time my wife Hayley and I have taken on our own pub," he said.

Bunn was chef patron at the Greyhound when the pub was awarded a Michelin star in 2004.

He then moved to be head chef at the Michelin-starred Orestone Manor Hotel, near Torquay, before deciding it was time for a change.

"The Orestone changed ownership and I could no longer see my future there. I wanted my own venture and to go back to pubs."

Bunn has refurbished the Chasers and restored some of the original features, such as the wood floor.

"Previously the outlet was set up as a restaurant with a bar, but we want locals to feel welcome to use the place as a pub," he said.

Trade is currently split 65/35 in favour of food.

"We've introduced real ales and the Brasserie Artois range as well as Becks Vier, so we're hoping to get beer sales up to around 40% of turnover."

Despite only opening the doors four weeks ago, Bunn has seen a surge in trade.

"Lots of curious locals have come in and many have booked a table for the following weeks. If this carries on, we will double weekly turn-over, compared to last year's figures," he added.

But the chef has mixed feelings about the Chasers Arms one day gaining a Michelin star. "Of course. it would be

a great honour, but I'm not sure it's what the Chasers needs. I don't want customers to feel intimidated by it -

I don't think a lot of people understand what it's all about."