Lorraine Arnold

James Astles

Meet James, our Operations Manager! From London's Theatreland to sunny Corfu, James and business owner Lorraine have been friends since the late Nineties. After their adventures in the entertainment industry and running their own bar, James traveled to Barcelona and Prague in search of the perfect cocktail and potato recipe. In late 2019, Lorraine convinced James to return to the UK and join her fish and chips venture. James managed the award-winning Paignton Pier Chippy before joining the Pier Point team in Torquay. Leading by example, James isn't afraid to roll up his sleeves and help out wherever needed, from rumbling potatoes to serving customers. He takes pride in handpicking the best team members to ensure our high standards are upheld and customers receive a warm Pier Point welcome. James's goal is to make each year busier than the last, providing exceptional experiences for all our customers. Not only that, but we are delighted to announce that James has been shortlisted in the Support Act of the Year Category in the Devon Women In Business awards! This is very much deserved & we are looking forward to celebrating.

Claire Williams

Claire Williams is our chirpy Takeaway Supervisor who has been with us since 2020. When the Covid pandemic first hit and restrictions forced our restaurant to close, we hastily erected our takeaway as soon as take away food was allowed. Claire steered the ship through those choppy waters as that outlet quickly found its feet in trying times. She later worked in the kitchen eventually becoming Kitchen Manager before taking a brief pause for pastures new, before rejoining us in our takeaway - as she missed the spectacular sunsets over The Bay too much! She sees herself as a people person and that is the main thing she loves about the job, being able to interact with both tourists and locals alike, as well as being something of a mother hen to many of the team. The extra string to her bow with us is that she has introduced not one but all four of her children to work with us in some capacity over the years, two of which are still with us, extra proof that we are a 'family friendly' venue!

Laura Beecham

I have worked with Lorraine for 5 years starting at Paignton Pier Chippy and returning to Pier Point in 2022 after taking maternity leave. I was happy to return to familiar faces and be part of a welcoming family atmosphere as it can be hard to return after such a long time off work. Pier Point has offered me great flexibility as a busy Mum of 2 young children so that I am able to work part time and spend that much need quality time at home with family. Having worked in catering and hospitality since I've been 16 I have always enjoyed the industry interacting with a wide variety of customers and my colleagues. Customer service is a very important part of our role at Pier Point and it is inspiring to work around lots of people that put everything into their jobs everyday.

Diane Jepson

Di is a single parent of 2 small children and 2 grown ups! Diane joined the team at a previous venue, Paignton Pier Chippy Co., and helped to make it award winning after 1yr of trading. Aligning herself with the values and ethos of the company and with Lorraine, including sustainability and also the pursuit of perfection for the product, Di got the ‘bug’ for the industry. As a working mum, Di loved the flexibility Lorraine offered in terms of juggling the children and also working full time, always appreciating when time off was given at short notice for ‘kiddie emergency’! She worked her way up to supervisor and was with the company for four years. Di left the company to pursue a different career path, and went into the care sector for 2yrs. Unable to stay away from the company, after Lorraine approached her to head up the busy kiosk After consideration, Di re joined the team, albeit in a different role. She said ‘I felt that the time was right and I could be part of the business and help it grow. 'I am really excited and looking forward to what we can do together and see the business flourish’

Lee Puck

Lee’s journey has been a rollercoaster of a ride! After the devastating loss of his mom at an early age, Lee began his journey into hospitality, where he forged firm friendships lasting to this day, and two of which he looks upon as family! Gaining confidence within the industry Lee worked at a local Hotel and made more ever lasting bonds and memories. During Covid, Lee was furloughed along with most of the country and looked forward to when he could resume his journey. Lee’s passion lies with delivering excellent customer service and for him, its the most important part of his day. Over the years he has had various gifts from his guests but none more treasured than a picture of himself with his ‘two brothers’. After covid Lee joined Pier Point. At first his old anxieties returned but over the last 2 years, with the help and support of the management and team, Lee has flourished and has worked his way up to a supervisor role. He continues to deliver 100% customer service and his continually grateful for the understanding and support given by Management. He says, ‘working at Pier Point gives me a feeling of accomplishment, and for me personally, the understanding of mental health is paramount. I am on right track to learn more and step up in all I do and my journey continues’

Liam Mugliston

Hi there my name is Liam, and I live in Torquay and I am 21. My journey started at age 16 working at hotels for 2 years doing customer service. I learned new skills every day to take with me and also trained other people and taught them new skills that they can take with them too. I started working at Pier Point at the age of 18 and have now been here for 3 years and am still learning new skills every day to improve myself. I have worked my way up the ladder at Pier Point to Pass Supervisor, which means that I make sure that all the food goes out correctly, with the correct cutlery and napkins, and to a high standard, checking with the kitchen that all food items are available and doing check backs with all the customers to make sure they are happy with their meals and resolve any issues if they are not. In my role I also train the other team members how to carry the food correctly, how to present it to the customers with the right cutlery and how to interact with them. I am also trained up in other areas such as greeting customers at the entrance and taking orders on the tablet, all of which I enjoy and take pride in.

Aaron Briggs

I started my working career in retail as a customer assistant to duty manager. Over the four years I spent as duty manager it helped me realise that just like there is always more than one way to do things, there are multiple ways to lead people and being a quiet leader can be just as effective as being a loud outspoken leader. After spending a total of eight years in retail I decided I needed a change and decided that the hospitality industry would be my next career. I started at Pier Point in 2021 initially as a waiter before being promoted to Supervisor and then to my current role as Floor Manager for the front of house. The best part about working at Pier Point is the people that I work with, I believe we have a great core team that is dedicated to giving our customers the best dining experience in the bay area everyday and it gives me great pride to be the leader of this team.

Nigel Brindley

Hello. My name is Nigel and I'm the Main Host at pier point. Starting work at the tender age of 11, I worked in my mother's Tea Shop in The peak District, and so my journey into Hospitality & Leisure began! I am now proud to say I have 40 years in the Casino and Leisure industry. My travels have taken me to the MGM Grand Hotel Las Vegas, the Beverly Hills Hotel L A. And also to Celebrity Cruise Lines Miami Florida. I ran The casino Concession and was a three stripe ranking officer for many years . On my return I took over the Devonshire Arms on the Chatsworth Estate at Beeley, where I gained experience and knowledge in training to a very high standard. This I bring to Pier Point today. I’m now in my third year with Pier Point as Concierge Host, which involves being on the front line meeting all sorts of interesting characters providing them with happy memories and always with a smile! that's for me is what its all about!

Felix Nicholls

I was born in Torquay and have lived in Torquay most of my life apart from a few years where I went to university. I have worked at pier point for nearly 3 years, with one of those years working alongside my university studies. I started as a waiter and have now progressed to a supervisor role, which I love! I really enjoy working in Pier Point, it's fast paced environment and interaction I have with the customers. The level of customer service we offer is first class and I love that the owners operate such a tight ship with such high standards. Also, working along side the sea front with the best views in Torquay is a far better office than any other job. I also get on with the rest of the team really well and have made life long friends while working here and I hope to continue working here for many years to come, and progress within the company.

Alison Ferguson

Meet Alison, a dedicated and passionate professional in the hospitality industry. With a career spanning over several years, Alison has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to excellence and a drive for personal growth. At the young age of 16, Alison embarked on their first job in hospitality and quickly discovered her true calling. Through hard work and determination, they swiftly progressed from an entry-level position to becoming a valuable staff trainer and eventually a trusted floor manager. In 2002, seeking new opportunities, Alison made the bold decision to relocate to the scenic south-west region and settled in the vibrant town of Newquay. During the subsequent 17 years, they not only established roots in their new community but also met their life partner and future husband. Throughout this period, Alison enthusiastically embraced various roles within the industry, gaining valuable experience in diverse establishments such as takeaways, cafes, and restaurants. In 2009, a pivotal moment in Alison's career arrived when they secured a position in a beach café. Their exceptional dedication and leadership skills propelled them to the role of General Manager, where they excelled in overseeing daily operations and ensuring outstanding customer experiences. In 2019, with her husband's impending retirement from the Royal Navy, a remarkable opportunity presented itself. Alison's employer extended a fantastic offer for both of them to open and manage a new establishment in Devon. Eager for a fresh chapter, they made the exciting decision to relocate to the sunny shores of Torquay. After four fulfilling years in Torbay, Alison felt a desire for a change and a need to cultivate a healthier work-life balance. Having been a patron of Pier Point, a renowned multiple award-winning establishment known for its exceptional cuisine and service, Alison reached out to express their interest. Recognizing their passion and dedication, Alison was offered employment, and they now take immense pride in working for such an esteemed establishment that consistently delivers amazing dishes. With an unwavering commitment to providing outstanding service and a genuine passion for the culinary arts, Alison continues to make a positive impact in the hospitality industry. Her journey thus far is a testament to her drive, adaptability, and unwavering pursuit of excellence.

Tony Hetherington

A Journey from St. Ives to Culinary Excellence Get ready to be inspired by the incredible story of our head chef, Tony Hetherington! Born and raised in the charming coastal town of St. Ives, Tony’s love for cooking was deeply influenced by his family’s ties to local fishermen. Spending his summers by the sea, he developed a profound appreciation for the ocean’s bounty and a passion for seafood that would shape his culinary journey. Starting from humble beginnings, Tony’s adventure began at home, where he took charge of the kitchen at a young age, determined to create mouthwatering meals for his family. Taking his first step into the culinary world as a pot washer at a local seafood restaurant, Tony’s journey was just beginning. Eager to broaden his horizons, Tony embarked on a coast-to-coast exploration, working in various kitchens across the country. With every experience, he refined his skills and expanded his repertoire, discovering the diverse culinary traditions of our nation. In a whirlwind ceremony during a holiday in Las Vegas, Tony and his lovely wife, Sarah, exchanged vows, reflecting their adventurous spirits and deep love for each other. Returning to the picturesque town of Torquay, they built a life together and welcomed two beautiful children into their loving family. A true testament to hard work and dedication, Tony continued to amaze diners at Pier Point Restaurant with his innovative seafood dishes, inspired by his St. Ives roots and the lessons learned throughout his culinary journey. Today, Tony’s story stands as an inspiration to aspiring chefs, symbolizing the power of perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of dreams. From the shores of St. Ives to the culinary heights of Torquay, his journey is a celebration of a life filled with love, adventure, and unwavering determination. Join us in applauding Tony’s incredible journey and indulge in his culinary creations at our restaurant!

Charlie James

A Passion for Fish and Chips Charlie James born in 1999 in Essex, Basildon, embarked on a fascinating journey that would shape his love for fish and chips. From a young age, his experiences fishing with his grandad paved the way for his deep-rooted passion for fish, which eventually led him to pursue a career in the culinary world. With a burning ambition to own a thriving fish and chip shop, Charlie aims to combine his fondness for the ever-popular dish with his entrepreneurial spirit. The seed of Charlie’s love for fish was planted during those memorable fishing trips with his grandad in Devon, where he later relocated. The serene beauty of the Devon coastline and the thrill of reeling in fresh catches instilled in him an appreciation for the treasures of the sea. These pivotal moments sparked a fervor within Charlie to channel his passion into something more tangible. Taking the first step towards fulfilling his dream, Charlie began working at a local fish and chip shop Paignton pier chippy. This firsthand experience allowed him to immerse himself in the intricacies of preparing and serving this beloved British delicacy. Over time he then joined on another adventure with the current owners Lorraine and moved to pierpoint torquay, he honed his skills, perfecting the art of crispy golden batter, mouth-watering chips, and succulent fish. Fuelled by an unrelenting desire to craft the perfect fish and chip experience, Charlie envisions owning his own successful fish and chip shop in the future. Drawing inspiration from traditional recipes and classic flavors, he plans to put his unique spin on this time-honored dish while offering impeccable customer service. Charlie’s journey from angler to fish and chip shop enthusiast showcases his unwavering dedication. With a strong sense of purpose and experience acquired through years of working in the industry, he eagerly awaits the opportunity to leave his mark in the world of culinary delights. Charlie’s unwavering love for fish and chips, coupled with his entrepreneurial aspirations, make him a formidable force in his quest to own a thriving fish and chip shop.

Craig Edmund

Meet Craig Edmund : I was born on February 3, 1984, in Inverness my parents worked for the ministry of defence Scotland and the other running a hotel , I grow up loving hospitality and my journey began when I moved to England in 1994 when I finished school and embarked on a career as a baker, working night shifts. With passion and precision, i honed my skills in crafting an array of delicious baked goods, from bread rolls to scones and various other bakery delights. Later, my career path led me to a hotel in the picturesque town of Torquay, where fate brought me together with my future wife. Working side by side for several years, our shared commitment to excellence and our growing bond laid the foundation for a strong partnership. Currently, I find myself at the award winning Pier Point Bar & Restaurant, in the kitchen, working alongside a fantastic team, and also back working with my wife who is the bar manager. Together, we form a dynamic duo, . Over the past four years, I have had the privilege of working under the guidance of renowned boss, owner Lorraine Arnold and operations manager James Astles. Working with head chef Tony Hetherington has given me the opportunity to expand my culinary repertoire and take on various responsibilities, from running the pass to frying fish and assuming the role of a skilled chef on occasion. I strive for perfect which is our motto and the experience, and the pride and joy I get each day, is immeasurable. I continue to embrace new challenges, eager to advance my career further and create memorable culinary experiences for all who come through our doors.

Kelly Briggs

I'm Kelly and I'm 25 years old. I grew up in Totnes and moved to Torquay when I was sixteen and started working at Pier Point in March 2020 first in the kiosk, then the chippy takeaway and am now in the kitchen, mainly on the pass. I really like the people here, we are a really close team and its nice when we all pull together on the busy days. Both my mum and brother work here currently. Standing at the pass not only do I get to watch the delicious food that I've plated up being sent out, but right in front of me are the beautiful views over the bay. The sunset sky is my favourite, all the reds, pinks and oranges are absolutely stunning, so I if I can I sometimes take a photo of it. I'm going to be trained up on the fryer which I'm a bit nervous about, but my boyfriend is a Head Fryer at another chippy and actually I have a sneaky suspicion that I might end up being even better at it than he is, which would be hilarious! I don't have any big career plans for myself currently but casually dropping a fish and presenting it perfectly cooked in front of him and watching his mouth drop open would definitely be a goal!

Bex Cowell

Hello, I'm Bex. Born and raised in Portsmouth, I moved to Torbay after visiting the world-famous Brixham Pirate Festival and falling in love with the town. It's a magical place, cute and characterful but with a salty edge provided by the fishing industry. Brixham exports fish and seafood all around the globe and I am proud to serve some of it in the restaurant where I work. On a quiet night I can hear the trawlers unloading from my house - you don't get much more local than that. My main passion is music. I played trumpet in a semi-professional ska band for many years and am a big fan of skinhead, mod and scooter culture. I love to dance to Northern Soul and can often be found shimmying from one end of the bar to the other whilst making drinks. Luckily the boss has similar taste in music so I can listen to some of my favourite tunes at work. Having a background as a performer definitely helps in hospitality and I certainly keep the customers entertained. Helping other people to have a good time is probably the thing I love most about my job. I do like a hobby and as well as being a volunteer leader at my local Brownie unit I am a founding member of Brixham Backgammon Club. On days off in the Summer I'll be either down my allotment or in the sea. In the Winter I'll be curled up by the fire in a cosy pub, working on a crochet project and enjoying a pint of cider.

Nikki Pinter

Nikki, a vibrant individual hailing from Budapest, embarked on a life-changing journey in 2011 when she relocated to England. At the age of 28, she initially settled in the bustling city of London, where she immersed herself in the vibrant nightlife scene, working at a popular nightclub located on Leicester Square. After a period of time, Nikki made a transition to beautiful town of Maidstone, seeking new experiences and opportunities. For the past nine years, Nikki has found her home in the charming coastal town of Torbay, where she has built a fulfilling life. During this time, she tied the knot, embracing the joys of married life. Additionally, Nikki's furry companion, her beloved dog, has become an inseparable part of her daily routine, as she cherishes their walks together and considers him her cherished companion. Having accumulated a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, Nikki's expertise spans various roles and responsibilities. From tending bar at weddings and events to delving into the art of culinary creations in the kitchen, including baking delectable cakes, she has honed her skills in pursuit of providing exceptional customer experiences. Currently Nikki thrives as a bar manager at the esteemed Pier Point Restaurant, under the guidance of renowned owner Lorraine and business partner James where she revels in the dynamic nature of her role and the opportunity to engage with diverse clientele. Nikki's passion for her work is evident, as she embraces each day with enthusiasm and dedication. Her love for the hospitality industry, paired with her commitment to delivering memorable experiences, defines her professional journey. With her warm personality, extensive expertise, and unwavering dedication, Nikki continues to make a positive impact in the world of hospitality, leaving a lasting impression on both colleagues and customers alike