Top pub chef is Keen as mustard

Pub chef Daniel Keen has been named as Tees Valley's hottest culinary talent in a regional newspaper award scheme.

Darren, joint licensee with his mother Barbara of the Smiths Arms in Carlton, Stockton-on-Tees, picked up the chef of the year title at the Tees Valley Evening Gazette Smile Awards. After being nominated by one of the pub's regulars, the Smiths was visited by mystery diners and shortlisted as one of three finalists.

Daniel, 31, said: "I've been a chef since I was 16 and to have my skills recognised in this way is incredibly rewarding, particularly when I have chosen to go down the pub route.

"When my mother and I took on the lease two years ago we were both keen to introduce an à la carte menu and it has proved a great hit. Hopefully this award will attract even more customers to the Smiths Arms."

Daniel was presented with a £500 cash prize and a trophy designed by artist Jane Charles.

The Punch-owned Smiths Arms has recently been through a £50,000 refurbishment.