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A chef inspired by the flavours of his Italian heritage has opened an upmarket delivered pizza business – with an eco-friendly focus.

Ben Pavone, whose family hails from the Italian province of Pescara, has brought forward the Stone Oven Pizza Co, specialising in gourmet pizza, anti-pasti, and hot and cold ciabatta lunchtime sandwiches, aimed at an at-home market.

Having worked as a chef in Australia and latterly France, he returned to his North East Lincolnshire home as lockdown loomed, and soon saw the opportunity.

He has taken premises on Wilton Road Industrial Estate, Humberston, creating a professional kitchen, with a small team of chefs and drivers brought together.

Ben said: “I was working in France and when the coronavirus hit, I had to come home. After seeing the foods that are available in the area, I decided to start my own business using authentic, high quality Italian ingredients and local produce. So even though it was a scary time, I believe something positive and constructive has come out of this.

“All cured meats are from a small, award-winning farm and charcuterie in the north of Italy, Fior di Latte mozzarella is shipped straight from Naples and tomatoes are sourced from San Marzano.

“Our vegetables are all organic and sourced from local Lincolnshire producers, and we will handmake our dough fresh every day in house, which is proved for 24 hours to create an authentic sourdough base. We have a commitment to quality.”

Being eco-friendly is a priority, with investment in sustainable, waste-conscious packaging made at the outset.