A PLANNING application has been lodged to convert a closed Italian restaurant in Stourport into a new Chinese takeaway.

Applicant Ming Wong, who previously ran China Chef on Tan Lane for ten years, hopes to open a new takeaway at the former Rosmario restaurant premises in High Street in March next year, if the plan is approved.

The 45-year-old chef says he decided to seize the opportunity to bring his Chinese cooking to the High Street following the closure of the Italian eatery earlier this year.

The proposed takeaway, which Mr Wong says he may name Ming's Kitchen, will feature a similar menu to his previous business.

Mr Wong, who was born in Hong Kong, came to London to study at the age of 14.

At a young age he used to help his auntie cook in the kitchen, before deciding to become a chef.

During his career, he worked as a chef at the London Hilton on Park Lane and at the UK's first Wagamama before coming to work in Stourport.

He said: "I'm happy to serve the people of the Stourport community. Hopefully it will work again.

"If you offer quality and quantity then customers will come back to you. It's all about building trust."