LONG-serving chefs have taken over the family pub where they have worked for years.

Ian Kropidlowski, 38, and Dean Cooke, 30, took over The Dolphin, in Stisted, three weeks ago.

Both worked at the pub as chefs when it was run by former publican Ashley Winsbury-Cutts, who moved on to start his own business in June.

Mr Kropidlowski said: “It’s very much a family pub, traditionally British and with food at reasonable prices, all the staff are nice and friendly with a warm welcome for everyone.

“I’ve been here four-and-a-half years ‘chefing’. My colleague Dean Cooke has been here eight years.

“I have been a chef for 23 years, I worked in London with Antony Worrall Thompson, in Switzerland and at Le Talbooth in Dedham.”

The pair are now working as directors of the company while Mr Kropidlowski’s dad, Michael Kropidlowski, and best friend, Tain McDowell, are investors.

The pub temporarily closed for a week while the duo revamped the garden and upgraded to a new till system, but is now up and running again.

An updated a la carte menu has been added, with specials all weekend and promotions like two for one fish and chips on Fridays and bar classics for £9.99 on Mondays.

There is also full range of traditional foods and a kids menu.

Mr Kropidlowski said: “People are enjoying the food and service and the friendly nature of the pub.

“We have kept the pub in the traditional way in which it was, the menu has been changed slightly to give people more variety.

“We also have a function room to the left of the pub which can cater for up to 40 people.”

For more information visit thedolphinpub.co.uk