A Cumbrian chef who boasts an impressive resume, including most recently cooking at The Hive in Barrow, is now focusing on offering his skills as a freelancer.

Dan Richards, who has been cooking up a storm in the kitchen for over 25 years, is looking to serve his dishes at work parties, weddings, funerals and christenings.

ChefDan catering services boasts experience from working alongside Raymond Blanc, Simon Rogan and Mark Robinson.

Dan retrained as a chef in 1998 after leaving his position as a Physical Training Instructor for an infantry regiment in the Army.

Though he has been offering private dining experiences for a few years now, as well as helping businesses out when they're short-staffed, Dan is hoping to focus on this going forward.

Covering all catering, from home fine dining to garden parties, buffets and grazing tables, Dan also prepares food for bespoke weddings.

For an important event, Dan would meet with clients beforehand, then write a menu based on the conversation, taking into account dietary needs, allergies, like and dislikes. He said the final menu would also come with ‘some surprises in there’.

Dan said: “I don’t really have a favourite dish as I do that many. But fine dining is a firm favourite of mine.”

He revealed one of the ‘surprise’ amuse bouche he has previously served was beef dripping popcorn.

Though based in Barrow, Dan has done quite a few private events in Manchester and in the Lake District as well as around the Furness area.