A TV chef and former I'm a Celebrity star has joined forces with a hotel chain which has just opened a brand new 161-bed site in the region.

Gino D'Acampo has today opened a high-end restaurant at the new INNSiDE Newcastle hotel on the city's quayside.

It comes as restrictions on indoor hospitality including pubs, restaurants and hotels has been lifted as part of the Government's roadmap out of lockdown.

See more: Everything you CAN and CAN'T do from May 17 - as restrictions lifted TODAY 

The new hotel restaurant and bar, which The Echo previously reported would open on May 17, is understood to be just the second hotel location with D'Acampo's name.

The Northern Echo:

Operated by Meliá Hotels International - Spain's largest hotel group - the restaurant promises to be an "exciting addition for the city," with views of the River Tyne.

Ahead of its opening Mr D'Acampo said he remained confident the new restaurant, named Gino D'Acampo Quayside, would prove a hit with tourists and visitors.

He said: “After many years of talking to Meliá about a partnership, I am super excited to be working with Garry and the team to finally be opening my first restaurant & bar in Newcastle in this fantastico, waterfront location.

“I want the restaurant to not only provide great Italian food to hotel guests but a destination for the food lovers of Newcastle to hang out from morning until night in cool surroundings.

"My waterfront alfresco terrace is sure to be a big hit with Newcastle’s summer sunseekers.

"I love people and that’s what makes Newcastle the cool city it is, I simply can’t wait to welcome guests to my restaurant.”

Garry Fortune, cluster general manager at Meliá Hotels International, echoed D'Acampo's comments and said it would become a "must-visit" venue.

He said: “This is a very exciting time as two lifestyle, destination hospitality brands come together to create a brand-new modern, dining experience for guests.

“INNSiDE Newcastle and Gino D’Acampo Quayside will be a must-visit dining hotspot for locals and business and leisure travellers - thanks to its impressive setting, overlooking the River Tyne.”

The restaurant will open everyday from 7am to 11.30pm.