Renowned chef, Albert Roux, will be returning to De Vere Slaley Hall this month for the first of his 2003 gourmet evenings.

On a ticket only basis, the evenings have proved a sell-out in the past and Roux will be appearing for one evening a month during March, April, May, June, September, October and December.

Roux said: 'There is a definite divide between diners in the north and the south. Northern food on the whole is far more hearty and takes longer to prepare. I have also noted Nothern Diners often favour larger portions!'

• In December, De Vere Group formed a sales and marketing alliance with Destination Hotels & Resorts of Colorado to increase the De Vere presence in the US.