Star chef Michael Caines to oversee Oswestry restaurant launch

The renowned chef will lend his expertise to The Townhouse in Willow Street, which will open in October or early November.

The project is expected to create up to 60 jobs.

Revealing the news today, The Townhouse owners Mike Scott and Ollie Jackson said the agreement will see Michael Caines Limited overseeing the appointment of key staff, kitchen design and layout, menu creation and online reservation systems, among other things.

The venue will be known as "The Townhouse – A restaurant by Michael Caines".

Mr Scott and Mr Jackson said: "We are so pleased that Michael is sharing his experience and expertise with us to make The Townhouse a true dining destination here in Oswestry.

"We have created an amazing environment for dining and socialising and to have Michael and his team in charge of our restaurant just adds the final piece to the jigsaw.

"This is really big news for Oswestry and we hope that it will be a massive boost for the town's restaurants as a Michael Caines restaurant will really put Oswestry on the food map."

Mr Caines said: "The Townhouse is a really exciting project to have become involved with. Our aim is to bring the highest quality dining experience to Oswestry to complement the fabulous surroundings that Mike and Ollie have created.

"It is really refreshing to open a restaurant of this nature away from a city, in a more rural location and we are sure that it will attract people from far and wide."

Mr Caines, who has two Michelin stars, is one of Britain's most acclaimed chefs, having been named AA Chef's Chef of the Year in 2007, and awarded an MBE in 2006 for services to the hospitality industry.

He is the executive chef at Gidleigh Park, which was voted the number one restaurant by Sunday Times Food List in 2013.

Mr Caines' primary interest will remain at Gidleigh Park and The Townhouse will be added to his growing portfolio of consultancy interests which also include restaurants in Manchester, Chester and Exeter.

Mr Caines added: "Michael Caines Limited brings many years of expertise, knowledge and creativity to The Townhouse that will help Mike and Ollie to achieve their goal of opening an affordable and stylish restaurant in their home town that serves great food in a relaxed and informal atmosphere.

"Unfortunately I cannot personally be in the kitchen at The Townhouse on a day-to-day basis but I very much look forward to regular visits and lending my support for key events."

Formerly Bar 35, The Townhouse has undergone an extensive two-year refurbishment.

The Townhouse is now recruiting staff for all areas, with applications to The Townhouse, 35 Willow Street, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 1AQ

Its restaurant waiting list is now open and bookings for functions, weddings and Christmas are being taken online at www.townhouseoswestry.com or on (01691) 659499.