Acclaimed chef Michel Roux has sold his stake in the White Hart Inn in Nayland, Suffolk, after being involved in the restaurant for more than 10 years.

Roux, who also runs the three Michelin-starred Waterside Inn in Bray, Berkshire, led a syndicate of local businessmen to take over the 15th Century former coaching inn in 1995.

Under his ownership, the restaurant, which also includes six bedrooms, became a critics’ favourite and one of Suffolk's best-known eateries.

Roux told local press of his sadness at ending his links with the White Hart Inn and cited long commutes and age as key factors in his decision to quit the business.

“Basically I was too far from Nayland to keep a close eye on the business. Chefs moved and managers were running their own show,” he said.

“In the end I decided to withdraw and sell my shareholding to my partner and friend Ian Altug.”

Speaking about Roux's departure from the business, a spokesman for the White Hart Inn said: “It means nothing at all, it just continues as normal.”

Five more years of Albert Roux at Restaurant Associates >>

Michel and Alain Roux >>

White Hart Inn website >>

By Kerstin Kühn

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