A WENSLEYDALE-BASED chocolate producer has announced an addition to their team.

Inspired Chocolate of Leyburn have appointed the highly-respected chocolatier, Andrew Thwaite, to its creative line-up. Having lived and breathed chocolate for more than 20 years, Mr Thwaite has worked alongside some of the biggest names in the chocolate industry.

He said: “I look forward to working with Richard and the Inspired Chocolate team and can’t wait to develop new ideas and help expand upon what is already a successful business.”

The firm’s managing director, Richard Warne, said: “It is great to welcome Andrew on board, he not only brings a wealth of experience but shares our vision of excellence.

“It is another step forward for Inspired Chocolate as we continue to develop our artisan chocolates, workshops and visitor experience.”

Based on Leyburn’s retail park, Inspired Chocolate is a popular tourist attraction; open to the public, visitors are able to watch the chocolatiers at work in the chocolate room and kitchen through large viewing windows.

Supplying both trade and corporate customers, the factory has a retail shop, café, educational displays and a dedicated chocolate workshop offering a range of chocolate making activities and events.