STUBBLES has a new face!

Andrew Eccles has taken over the helm at the popular restaurant and wine bar following previous owner Mark Kenyon's decision to head for warmer climes.

Mark, who has run the Haymarket Street-based Stubbles in Bury for three-and-a-half years, plans to establish a similar business next year on Spain's sun-kissed Costa Del Sol.

"I feel I need a new challenge," says Mark, whose recipes have appeared in the columns of the Bury Times.

"An agent over in Spain is searching for suitable premises in the Benalmadena and Fuengirola areas.

"A lot of Bury people holiday in that part of Spain so, hopefully, I'll see some of my old customers."

Mark (36), who was head chef at the BBC in Oxford Road, Manchester for five years before going it alone, will eventually sell his home and move abroad with his partner Jennifer and their 11-month-old daughter. "I'm really relishing the challenge. I think it's possible I'll end up going to Spain at the beginning of the next season."

New owner Andrew Eccles has worked in and managed several public houses and has cooked meals for up to 100 people. He also has several years experience running a successful car dealership.

This combination of "hands on" experience and commercial knowledge has led Andrew and his wife Diane to purchase Stubbles.

"I aim to build on the strong reputation of Stubbles in providing good quality dishes from around the world at sensible prices."

He also plans to expand the wine list and to introduce a range of speciality beers.

Andrew added: "We wish Mark and Jennifer all the best in their new venture and hope they take a little bit of Bury to the Costa Del Sol. But remember to send a little sol back to Bury."