John Tovey

John Tovey MBE, the former owner of the celebrated Miller Howe Hotel, Windermere, passed away in 2018 at the age 85.

Mr Tovey, originally of Walney, died at his home in South Africa, with his partner at his bedside. He had been suffering from dementia.

The acclaimed chef built up the world famous Lakes restaurant, fronted TV series such as "Eating Out with Tovey" for the BBC, and wrote best selling cook books. Mr Tovey was also involved with the theatre and worked alongside Donald Sartain at Her Majesty's Theatre, in Barrow.

Mr Tovey was a partner in the popular Bay Horse Hotel and Restaurant at Ulverston for many years and its owners, Robert Lyons and Lesley Wheeler, his great friends paid tribute to him.

Mr Lyons was the head chef at Miller Howe Hotel for 17 years, Mr Tovey would say Mr Lyons was like a son.

Ms Wheeler said: "He enriched so many of our lives with his generous nature, hospitality and entertainment.

"He was flamboyant. He was one the first TV chefs and was great entertainer. He was the best host and loved to have people around.

"We are so grateful for the fantastic experiences he gave us. He encouraged us to start up our own business."

Ms Wheeler, who also worked at Miller Howe, said Mr Tovey would take staff on overseas food tours in the winter months and really cared for his team. She said it was a big family.

She said he encouraged his team to go and set up their own business and many now run hotels and restaurants.

Mr Tovey received his MBE in the Queen's New Year Honour's list in December 1996 for services to the tourism industry. He learnt of the honour while holidaying in South Africa.

Article courtesy of the Evening Mail.

Jonathan Powell is undertaking some research along with Art Gene in Barrow of John Tovey's days in Barrow, as a child and later as administrator of Her Majesty's Theatre before becoming an early and foremost exponent of the Country House style of hospitality and cuisine. 

In his possibly last book, of many, "Having a Binge on a Diet", at page 8, he recalls his Grammar School days and performing in drag in The Admirable Chrichton. 

It would be most interesting to learn more of his school days or of his family and where they lived, and especially his grandmother Leah who heavily influenced his cooking style. 

If anyone can help please use the contact form below.

Dave Myers remembers John Tovey.