Charlie Lakin grew up on a farm in North Yorkshire, which is where his love for hearty rural cookery began. His career in the kitchen started early, with a stint at a local restaurant before he left school. This experience spurred him to study catering at Yorkshire Coast College.

Once qualified, Charlie was appointed sous Chef at the Star Inn at Harome under Chef Proprietor Andrew Pern, earning numerous awards and accolades.

After four years at the Star Inn Charlie was appointed Head Chef at the Feversham Arms at Helmsley, a local boutique hotel. It was a great move, for Charlie and for the Fev'. The restaurant received glowing reviews, won numerous awards and became one of the select and exclusive 'Pride of Britain Hotels'.

During his time at the Fev' Charlie married his South African partner Paula and together they moved from North Yorkshire to the South East coast of Kent. Here he set about familiarising himself with the area and establishing the network of local suppliers and resources that are trademarks of his award-winning cuisine.