Marco Pierre White and Robert Plant at Bellman's Cross Inn

Matt Saley, the manager of The Bellman's Cross Inn and Dominique's Restaurant in Shatterford, said it was a "real honour" to welcome Marco Pierre White to the long-running establishment for lunch on Friday afternoon (November 8).

Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant, who lives locally, also popped into the pub for a drink and shared some memories with the TV chef and entrepreneur.

Matt said Marco and his team visited the pub to meet with Chris Sadler, who runs Bewdley distillery Wildjac.

Marco, who became the youngest chef to be awarded three Michelin stars in the 90s, enjoyed a smoked salmon, capers and lemon starter, and a whole Dover sole on the bone with meunière sauce main course.

Matt said he also enjoyed a pint of Bathams Best Bitter, brewed in Brierley Hill in the Black Country, which he remarked was an "excellent pint.”

The pub and à la carte restaurant, which serves classic French cuisine, is run by head chef Dominique Saley and his son Matt.

Dominique Saley with Marco Pierre White (Image: Matt Saley)

Matt said it was an "absolute pleasure" to cook lunch for the culinary legend.

He said: "He was very complimentary. He enjoyed the food. He was talking to Dominique about his past and his cooking experiences.

"He's always been Dominique's favourite chef so it was a massive privilege.

"It was a really lovely afternoon. He took time to speak to everybody.

"He's one of the best chefs ever. It was a real honour - it doesn't happen every day".

He said Robert Plant enjoyed a pint of Bathams and a glass of Chianti.

Matt added: "Robert knows him from back in the day.

"He just popped in and said hello and had a quick drink with him and shared a few memories".

Matt thanked Chris Sadler from Wildjac for organising the lunch at the restaurant.