KEIGHLEY Golf Club has taken on a new catering and events company to raise its profile amongst the general public.

The long-established club hopes to attract more users to the restaurant, bar and function room at its recently-refurbished clubhouse.

New catering supremo Stephen Andrews also plans a programme of special events such as sportsmen’s dinners and performances by bands and comedians.

He wants to highlight that the club is open to the public for meals from 9am to 8pm.

Stephen, who has many years’ experience in the hospitality business, is working under the banner of his company Lucullan Dining & Events.

He set up Lucullan last year, using the name of a Roman general famous for post-battle banquets with fine food, wine and entertainment.

Stephen specialises in fine dining and wine pairing, holding his first few events at the Counting House in Silsden before looking round for bigger venues.

He teamed up with the golf club after hearing through his brother-in-law – a long-time member and former club captain – that officials wanted to promote their restaurant and function facilities.

Stephen, 35, began his career as a teenage apprentice at the former Headleys restaurant on the main road through Utley. He progressed through kitchen roles then spent five years abroad as a holiday rep with Thomas Cook’s Club 18-30.

He then worked for Timothy Taylor, undergoing management training and working at Keighley venues such as the K2 nightclub and the Lord Rodney.

After a stint in Cambridge and work as a freelance chef across Yorkshire and Lancashire, who last year fulfilled dream of setting up his own company.

Stephen said the golf club’s function facilities were available for weddings, funerals, parties and other special occasions.

He added: “We’re looking at getting a civil wedding licence so we can do the whole package rather than just receptions. The kitchen is open from nine in the morning till eight at night, so everyone is welcome to come into eat.”

Stephen’s first fine dining evening will be on November 16 with wines to match the courses, which will be based on dishes from countries between Venice and Istanbul, such as Greece and Croatia.

Call the golf club on 01535 604778 for further information.