CHEF Nigel Haworth and his partner Craig Bancroft, enjoyed a star-studded evening when they received a coveted Michelin Star.

Top Lancashire restaurant and hotel Northcote Manor, in Langho, was awarded the prestigious star in January, but the pair have waited until now to actually receive it.

They toasted their success at the Champagne Mumm gala dinner in Chester.

It is the first year the event has been held outside London, reflecting the increasing prominence of Northern cuisine. The star is the latest in a long line of accolades awarded to Northcote Manor.

Nigel was named Egon Ronay Chef of the Year for 1995 and the hotel was awarded a prized Clover Leaf award in the Ackerman Charles Heidsieck hotel and restaurant guide for 1995.

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