AWARD-winning Tynedale restaurateurs Rhian and Helen Cradock have announced plans to switch to a five-day week to improve working conditions for their staff and customer experience.

The couple, who run The Feathers Inn at Hedley on the Hill, which scooped the Pub of the Year title at last month’s Living North Awards, say the change will also afford chef Rhian more time for dish research while the restaurant is closed.

“We’re frequently so busy here, it’s often difficult to get uninterrupted time to just focus on development,” he said.

“The idea came along because we no longer have the time to be creative.”

Starting this month, the kitchen will open for lunch from Thursday to Sunday and for dinner from Wednesday to Saturday.

The couple said they had made their decision after months of extensive research.

And nationally, they are following in the footsteps of renowned chefs such as Michel Roux Jr, who switched his London-based restaurant, Le Gavroche, to a five day week in order to improve staff hours, welfare and enjoy a better work-life balance.

Helen said: “We will not be doing food any more on Tuesday and Wednesday lunch times.

“It’s a small change, but will reduce our income. The bar will be open as usual for drinks on Tuesday evenings.

“This also puts the customers first, so we know they are always getting the very best we can offer.”

The couple, who have two young children, are keen to stress that quality has always been crucial and the only way for them to keep up standards and allow for a healthy family life is to reduce the kitchen hours.

“My intention has always been to serve the finest food with local produce,” said Rhian.

“When people eat here, they know my hand is behind every dish, from its creation to service.”

The five-day week will be introduced as a trial, with the intention for it to become a permanent change.