Chris brings over two decades of industry experience to The Lion, having led kitchens at popular venues like the Station Tavern,Old Ticket Office in Cambridge and Bicicleta in Saffron Walden, as well as time spent honing his skills in pubs and restaurants across the globe.Chris was a runner-up in Young’s Brewery’s British Pubs Chef of the Year competition (ahead of over 2,000 chefs) and is known for creating pub classics with a twist; proper, hearty food that will still surprise you. He has already set his sights on delivering the best Sunday roast in the area.

Vikki, who has spent her teen years in pubs and bars, shares Chris’s long-standing dream of running a pub together. When the opportunity at the Lion arose, they knew it was the right fit, especially given its unique status as a community-owned pub. Having seen the success of similar ventures like the Railway Arms in Saffron Walden, they were drawn to the shared sense of ownership and local pride that surrounds the Lion.

Now based in the newly renovated flat above the pub with their Pomeranian, Patsy, and Chris’s young daughter Finley, Chris and Vikki are excited to become part of the Ickleton community. Their vision for the Lion is clear, the pub will be a warm, inclusive space where everyone feels welcome, whether you’re stopping in after a dog walk, catching up with friends over drinks, or enjoying a great meal made from locally sourced ingredients.

The Lion will also be a place of opportunity. Chris and Vikki are passionate about giving local young people their first step into hospitality, just as they both once had, with the hope of inspiring the next generation of pub managers and chefs.