Gluten-free fare offered at Essex pub

An Essex pub has launched an almost completely gluten-free menu for customers.

Steven Fleming, head chef at the Five Bells in Colne Engaine, has created a menu with most dishes gluten-free, or available gluten-free, depending on how much the gluten substitution affects the taste and colour.

"We've had a really good response," said Fleming. "More and more coeliac customers are coming in as word gets out and the change has been really popular.

"I don't think people with allergies should be held back when eating out, because they can't do anything about it. I want them to come out for a meal and have a choice of dishes.

"It's certainly opened my eyes to cooking again," said Fleming.

Each item on the menu is clearly labelled "gluten-free" or "available gluten-free".

Time allowing, Fleming is willing to tailor most dishes to a customer's requirements, although he prefers diners to call ahead to allow time for planning.

He is currently working on a gluten-free pie.

The most popular gluten-free item is the battered haddock with chips, mushy peas and home-made tartare sauce (£10.95).