A former detective has set up a snack business in a converted horsebox.

Stewart Catt's new career is miles away from his work investigating major crimes.

But the 56-year-old is looking forward to getting the venture off the ground.

He retired from Kent Police last March, having signed up in 1997. Before that he served in the Army.

Several years ago, Stewart – a "self-confessed foodie" who applied for a place on Masterchef – had hankered for a job in the catering business.

The dad-of-five and granddad does most of the cooking at the home he shares with wife Jackie in Twydall and found rustling up meals therapeutic during lockdown.

He bought the horsebox for £3,000 and spent another £5,500 refitting it with a serving hatch, fridges, power and a griddle.

The keen cyclist has named his business The Musette Stop after the bags handed out to seasoned bikers containing water, energy gels, fruit and cake.

Fittingly, the mantra for his new venture is Refresh-Refuel-Ride.

Stewart got it on the road for the first time on March 28 at West Motney Way, a stone's throw away from Riverside Country Park in Gillingham, a popular haunt with dog walkers and families.

He has already built up regular custom with cycling club members, despite the bad weather.

He said: "I've done my time for Queen and country. It's a gamble I know. I'm used to having the security in my job and never considered myself a businessman.

"But I like the idea of being my own boss. This is something I have wanted to do for many years."

He added: "Our menu is inspired by cycling and our travels. I got the horsebox as something different.

"I didn't want it to be greasy spoon cafe. If the business takes off I would like to fulfil one of the things on my bucket list and go to major cycling events across Europe."

It is open from 10am on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

For more details, visit his website. www.themusettestop.co.uk

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