One of the country's top chefs has announced he is leaving a Michelin-starred restaurant near Norwich.

Head chef Liam Nichols has revealed his plans to leave STORE in Stoke Holy Cross in August after four years at the helm.

After moving back to his home county during the pandemic, Mr Nichols started cooking at the adjoining Stoke Mill.

Norwich Evening News: Liam Nichols, pictured right, is leaving STORE in Stoke Holy CrossLiam Nichols, pictured right, is leaving STORE in Stoke Holy Cross

After a conversation in the pub, he worked with business partners Andy Rudd and Ludo Iaccarino to open STORE in May 2021.

His highlight from his time at STORE was guiding the restaurant to its first Michelin star in 2023 which was retained this February.

The former Hethersett High School pupil had previously worked at restaurants in Melbourne and New York as well as Tom Kerridge's Bar and Grill in London.

Norwich Evening News: Chefs Hazel Yuill and Liam Nichols in the open kitchen at STORE Chefs Hazel Yuill and Liam Nichols in the open kitchen at STORE (Image: Fixr)

Mr Nichols, who gained TV fame in January when he appeared on The Great British Menu, said: "I could never have expected what we as a team have achieved in these four years, building STORE up to what it is today.

"I just want to say a huge thank you to each and every person who has come to eat with us and for making this chapter unforgettable.

"Especially to Hazel for sticking by me through the years.

Norwich Evening News: Liam Nichols (second from the left) with the other contestants and host Andi Oliver on Great British MenuLiam Nichols (second from the left) with the other contestants and host Andi Oliver on Great British Menu (Image: BBC)

"Your love for good food and epic vibes has spurred me on each and every service."

The chef has announced his last shift will be on August 24 before taking time out to travel around South East Asia. 

"At the ripe old age of 33, I'm going travelling," he added. "There is a world out there and I want to see it."