IT'S hats off to Paul Greenhalgh who is returning to his northern roots. He's just been appointed head chef at the newly-opened £12 million Village Hotel and Leisure Club, Heap Bridge, Bury.

Paul, who originally hails from neighbouring Bolton, had latterly been working in Bromborough.

He will be responsible for all aspects of kitchen management, servicing banqueting and the hotel's three dining areas, Salingers Bar and Restaurant, Cafe Copra and the Village pub.

Paul (25) has experience in working at Village Leisure Hotels, having moved from the company's hotel in Bromborough.

He studied catering at Bolton Metropolitan College and gained experience in European cuisine in Austria.

The 98-bedroom Village Hotel and Leisure Club, which is located at the Waterfold Business Park, is the 13th in the company's chain.

In addition to the restaurant facilities, it boasts an impressive leisure club including a 25 metre pool, sauna and steam room, a 5,000 sq ft gym, aerobic studio, squash courts and HealthWorks health and therapy studio.