THE four-star Best Western Plus Dean Court Hotel has appointed John Malia as its new head chef for the award-winning DCH Restaurant.

He has worked for several highly reputable restaurants across Yorkshire and the rest of the UK, including the popular bar chain Provenance Inns and The Royal York Hotel.

He said: “I want to create a restaurant that the locals love to visit, whether it’s for a quick lunch, a mid-week dinner or a leisurely Sunday lunch.

“Our restaurant truly has the best views in York so it’s time to share this with the city and really showcase what we can do.

“People want a more relaxed dining experience these days, it’s about a great food, great company and creating a really unique experience, that keeps diners coming back time and time again.” The restaurant will aim to use the best locally sourced produce.

Simon Murphy, hotel general manager, said: “John’s experience and passion for the restaurant industry is clear to see and his experience and leadership skills make him the perfect choice for the team.”

l Langleys Solicitors has strengthened its dispute resolution offering with the appointment of partner James Henson.

He joins Langleys from Nabarro in Sheffield and is based in the firm’s York office.

He advises on all types of commercial contractual disputes, shareholder and partnership disputes, claims against directors, civil fraud and professional negligence claims against accountants, lawyers and other professionals.

Mr Henson also acts for utilities companies and other network operators in civil claims, particularly involving damage to apparatus. He is frequently instructed by the European Commission, for whom he has acted for many years.

Tim Cross, head of commercial law at Langleys, said: “James is an excellent addition to our team.

“He is an expert in many different areas of dispute resolution and his knowledge will further enhance the advice that we offer to our clients. We are continually looking to recruit quality people.”

Mr Henson said: “Langleys has a strong reputation for the high quality of its services to clients, including in dispute resolution, and I’m looking forward to adding my experience to our offering.”