Richard Picard-Edwards has announced he will leave his position as head chef at Lords of the Manor, which holds one star in the Michelin Guide UK  and three rosettes in the AA Restaurant Guide, at the end of this month.

Richard has been head chef of the Gloucestershire based hotel, The Lord of the Manor for almost four years helping the hotel retain its one Michelin star which it has held for eight consecutive  years. 

Speaking to The Staff Canteen, Richard said: “I wanted to take some time out because I just had a child six months ago so I want to spend some more time with my family and assess what I want to do.

“My wife’s French so I’m going to head out there and see what life brings. I don’t really know what I want to do, I might be out there for four weeks or it could be four months, I don’t know. I just want to take some time out because I was at Lords of the Manor for almost four years. I just want to take some time out to assess what I want to do.”

Paul Nicholson who recently joined the hotel as a Senior Sous chef has been appointed interim head chef whilst a search for a replacement for Richard is underway. Paul was previously head chef at the AA 3 Rosette Dial House Hotel.

Michael Obray, General Manager of Lords commented: "We are very sad that Richard is leaving Lords and we are grateful for all the culinary achievements gained during his tenure. We wish Richard and his family all the very best for their new life in France."

Prior to Lords of the Manor, Richard had previously worked under Simon Haigh at Mallory Court and Hywel Jones at Lucknam Park.

Richard told The Staff Canteen that he handed in his notice just over a week ago and his last day will be the end of November.

>>> Read more about Richard Picard-Edwards here