Knutsford stars in NRB’s top 50 list (From Knutsford Guardian)

Knutsford stars in NRB’s top 50 list

6:00pm Thursday 14th March 2013 in News By James Wilson

FOUR men who are instrumental in the Knutsford restaurant and pub scene have been named in a prestigious list honouring the north of England’s top catering professionals.

Fifty top hospitality professionals were honoured as the best in their industry in the north, as part of the 2013 Northern Restaurant and Bar show, held at Manchester Central last week.

The second NRB Top 50 list was chosen by panel of industry experts, and winners were recognised for their influence, impact and overall pre-eminence within the sector.

Dave Mooney, who owns the Old Sessions House in Canute Place, together with business partner Paul Newman, were named in the list.

Also honoured were Jeremy Roberts and Tim Bacon, from Princess Street-based Living Ventures.

Dave and Paul both run the New Moon Pub Company, which has further sites in Kelsall, Weaverham and a new one opening in the Wirral village of Eastham in May.

Dave told the Guardian it was an honour to have been named.

“There was a bit of a hint that we may want to attend. We then got an email two days before, but it’s really nice to have been acknowledged by your peers.

“But it’s a sort of vindication of taking three pubs that were closing, or not doing great, and employing 100 people, mainly youngsters and some not so young.

“It’s great to show all the hard work that everyone has put in.”

Dave also took part in a demonstration at the event, where he cooked with ingredients – including venison and Eccles cakes – sourced within 20 miles of Manchester city centre.

“The show was 20 per cent bigger this year, and it’s like a little social gathering for the industry,” he said.