The flagship Burley-in-Wharfedale restaurant of a consortium fronted by a world-class chef has enjoyed a very tasty first year's trading.

Cutlers Bar and Brasserie, the brainchild of chef and restaurateur Rick Hodgson, has achieved a turnover of more than £753,000 since it opened last June.

This was 18 per cent higher than the predicted target and has given Mr Hodgson and his partners Andrew Carnell and Mike Perkins, a strong base to expand from.

The consortium plans to eventually run a 20-strong chain of restaurants in stylish buildings across Yorkshire.

Explaining the 'neighbourhood restaurant' concept that will underpin each branch, Mr Hodgson said: "Most of our customers come from within five miles of Burley-in-Wharfedale.

"This is the evolution of 'the local' - somewhere on your doorstep offering high-quality food and drink in an informal atmosphere."

Cutlers, which seats 70 in its brasserie and 63 in its bar area, employs 53 people and has served more than 31,000 lunches and dinners in the past 12 months.

It has opened up a 70-seat sister restaurant in Otley, Bibb & Tucker at the Summer Cross, which offers more traditional pub fare.

The consortium will open a third, 75-seat restaurant in Harrogate later this summer to round off a very successful first year.

Mr Hodgson said: "We know we have a product that is attractive to diners.

"We have worked hard this year to ensure what we offer is of the highest quality at an unpretentious price.

"Our plans now are to roll out the Cutlers brand across Yorkshire."