Meet Steve Andrews, managing director of Woolston Manor in Chigwell

Woolston Manor in Chigwell

SET in 200 acres of picturesque Essex parkland with the River Roding running through it, Woolston Manor is a prestigious golf and country club. New managing director, Steve Andrews, took over in February 2008 and he has ambitious plans for the future. Steve is no stranger to this environment with 15 years in the industry and successful entertainment venues at the popular Blue Bridge restaurant in Writtle and Club 195 in Epping. Living close by at Stamford Rivers, Steve is however a stranger to golf, but has plans to put that right with a series of private lessons in the New Year. Woolston Manor is conveniently situated close to the City in pretty Chigwell village. It's surrounded by the manicured lawns of the 18-hole course and pristinely kept gardens, but it also now has a licence for civil ceremonies and civil partnerships. The top floor Manor Room has been recently refurbished and overlooks the grounds and heated swimming pool. It's proving popular for business breakfasts and luncheons and the restaurant is now open for sumptuous Sunday lunches. An assiette of desserts included a mini lemon meringue pie, winter berry d�lice and chocolate marquise For our luncheon together we sampled some of the dishes on offer on this tasty new Sunday lunch menu. To begin there was oak-smoked Salmon blini with a flash of piquant pickled beetroot, which was followed by a generous portion of grilled Old Spot pork loin served with a buttery light mash, a rich wholegrain mustard sauce and wholesome root vegetables, complemented by homemade apple sauce on the side. To complete a fine lunch, Steve presented us with an attractive assiette of desserts which included a mini lemon meringue pie, winter berry d�lice, a choux bun filled with diplomat crme, chocolate marquise and passion fruit coulis. December is going to be one of Woolston Manor's busiest months so far, with in excess of 4,000 diners expected through the doors to enjoy Christmas party lunches, a Christmas Day luncheon or Christmas cabaret nights with live entertainment and dancing until 1am. A great way to celebrate the festive season.

Woolston Manor Golf & Country ClubAbridge Road, Chigwell IG7 6BX020 8500 2549www.woolstonmanor.co.uk