The Anglian Country Inns pub group has named its 'Chef's Chef' winner for 2024.

Fran Hartshorne, executive head chef at The White Horse in Brancaster Staithe, was voted the winner by her fellow head chefs at the group's nine other establishments.

Ms Hartshorne has been a part of The White Horse team since 2005 when she began as a sous-chef.

The group has called her "one of our best home-grown talents" and praised her "deep-rooted connection to Norfolk and its rich culinary heritage".

READ MORE: Crab Hut in Brancaster Staithe named among best in Europe 

Ms Hartshorne creates her menus in a kitchen with a beautiful backdrop of the Brancaster marshes, which she said makes her feel like "the luckiest chef along the Norfolk coast".

Rob Williamson, The White Horse's general manager, said: "We are incredibly proud - in Fran, we see a shining example of the talent, passion, and dedication that defines ACI, and we are honoured to have her as part of our team.

"Congratulations Fran - you are awe-inspiring."

Kumour Uddin, head of food, said: "As executive head chef at The White Horse in Brancaster Staithe, Fran embodies the spirit of culinary excellence and unwavering dedication.

"Her remarkable journey from our kitchen to winning our Chef's Chef of the Year Award is a testament to her passion, creativity, and commitment to crafting top-class dishes.

"Fran's relentless pursuit of sustainability, coupled with her innovative approach to utilising locally sourced ingredients, has set a perfect example in ACI on what we want to serve.

"Her food not only delights our guests but also inspires our entire team.

"This award to Fran is a celebration of her exceptional talent, her profound impact on our high footfall venue, and her unwavering passion for food."