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A Gloucestershire business which offers cruise trips on the River Severn has appointed a former Royal Marine as its new head chef.

English Holiday Cruises, which is based in Gloucester Docks, has recruited Sam Moore to command the kitchen for the 2022-2023 season aboard the Edward Elgar, which the company calls the º£½ÇÊÓƵ’s largest capacity inland hotel boat.

Mr Moore previously served in the Armed Forces, initially with the Princess of Wales Royal Regiment and later the Royal Marines 43 Commando.

While posted in Afghanistan he was seriously injured in an explosion which left him blind in one eye.

He subsequently began his culinary career, which over nine years has taken him from initially providing cover for a friend’s short-staffed business to working alongside Michellin Star chefs.

Mr Moore secured his first head chef position in 2018 during which time he and his colleagues were recognised in The Good Food Guide and with restaurant and gastropub trade awards.

Mr Moore said: “The moment I stepped on the boat for my interview I felt at home. It felt like a little family, and I am pleased to say I am now part of that. The support within and the plans for the company to expand is something exciting and that I intend to be a part of.

“I look forward to continuing my journey and producing an excellent standard of freshly cooked food on the Edward Elgar and English Holiday Cruises – watch this space!”