A business newly-arrived at Halls of Ripon department store is catching the eye with its hand-crafted creations that include a chocolate crown inspired by the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla.

Ben Ellis, a former head pastry chef at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, took three months to make the spectacular sculpture using the finest Belgian chocolate, isomalt sugar work, marshmallows and edible inks.

The chocolate crown created by Ben Ellis

Mr Ellis runs Ben Ellis Pastry Chef & Chocolatier with his wife Vicky and specialises in the creation of handmade and hand-painted artisan chocolates, using fresh and raw ingredients, that are gluten free and suitable for anybody who is dairy intolerant or vegan.

He said:

“With the coronation in mind, I decided to make the crown as a showpiece to illustrate what I can do in creating chocolate-based edible art. I’m pleased to say that it has attracted a lot of attention.

“Every aspect of the crown can be eaten, including the jewels made with isomalt and the ermine made from marshmallows.”

Prior to setting up the business with his wife, Mr Ellis worked at a number of large restaurants and hotels in London and as the head pastry chef at the Royal Hospital Chelsea, home to the Chelsea Pensioners and venue for the world-famous annual flower show, he created dishes for members of the royal family.