Pub owner appointed chairman of The Great Inns of Britain

Simon Heaton of the Shibden Mill Inn near Halifax in West Yorkshire has replaced Sir Thomas Ingilby after becoming a member in 2010. John Tullet, general manager of the Michelin-starred Yorke Arms near Pately Bridge in North Yorkshire is now vice chairman.

"It’s a great honour to be taking over from Sir Thomas at the helm of Great Inns of Britain which, 17 years on from its creation, remains a unique organisation," said Heaton. "It’s collection of the finest inns in the country, embracing history, great food, drink, service and attention to detail – the values that exemplify what is means to be classed as an inn, in the truest sense. I look forward to developing Great of Inns of Britain here in the UK and working to extend its reach further afield."

The Great Inns of Britain was founded by the late Paul Whittome, who owned the Hoste Arms in Burnham Market, Norfolk.