ONE of Worcestershire's leading hotels has welcomed a new chef to build its culinary reputation.

Brittany-born Jerome Besancon will take charge of the kitchens at Brockencote Hall Hotel in Chaddesley Corbett, near Kidderminster.

He joins the hotel from three-rosette Charlton House Hotel near Bath.

"We're known a being a little piece of France in the Heart of England and Jerome joining us will ensure that authenticity is continued in our restaurant," said owner Joseph Petitjean.