THERE is a new owner at the helm of a healthy eating restaurant in Northwich, with hopes of bringing a greater focus on what we are putting into our bodies.

Ashley Wood has opened Lean Body Kitchen in Witton Street, having taken over from what was Eat Clean Cuisine, opposite the Penny Black.

With a background in gym instructing, and owner of Funk Fitness in Winsford, Ashley and his new team will be offering advice to those looking to get in shape and improve their diet.

A new-look interior complements a fresh menu, where customers can ‘build your own box’ made up of protein, carbs, super food and sauce.

There are also healthy waffles, potatoes, burgers and wraps on offer, with Ashley’s message being that the right food offers a platform to build on at the gym or in everyday life.

He said: “We have completely changed the interior – we want to associate it with a building site. It’s about construction – when you come here your body is under construction.

“The response has been great so far. As well as serving food we’ll be doing weighing days, body fat reads and offer a bit of help where needed.

“We’ll be on hand to give instruction and help people learn about their food.”

Now 31, Ashley started his career at JJB gym in Winsford aged 16. He become an instructor at 18, gaining experience before opening Funk Fitness.

With his background in fitness and training people through their body improvement journey, Ashley has seen first hand the impact of getting the right food in.

So, when Eat Clean Cuisine owner Miles Smethurst put the Northwich restaurant up for sale and reached out to the gym community, it was an easy decision for Ashley to get involved and bring in a chef.

He said: “I was already looking at getting into this side of things. The platform was already there – he has built the business, and now I am looking forward to getting it how I want it to run.

“Food is such a vital part of everyone’s life and it’s important to make sure you know what you are doing.”

The LBK team open their doors today, Wednesday, January 2.

Opening hours are 11am to 5pm Monday to Friday, and 10am to 3pm on Saturdays.