ROSS Serino has always looked up to his older brother.

He was one of the main reasons the 28-year-old started working at the family restaurant more than ten years ago.

A decade on not much has changed. Except now, as owner of The Tuns Pub, in Sadberge, Ross has his own family business to run.

He said: “We have a family restaurant called Santoro’s, in Yarm, which my father Vince runs. I worked there as a teenager as a kitchen porter and later as a waiter. I did not just want to follow my Dad but also my older brother Ricci.

“I wanted to go down there with him and make sure I did not miss out on anything he was getting to do.”

Ross spent a year at catering college in Darlington, despite his father advising him against joining the industry.

He said: “My Dad tried to persuade me not to go as he knows how hard the trade is. It is definitely cut throat now, but I was stubborn and wanted to do what everyone else was doing.

“I wanted the challenge and the change in my life. I wanted to fly out the nest. I was looking for a while before I found the right place.”

It took Ross a long time to finally find the right business but when popular village pub The Tuns came along a year ago he knew it was the right choice.

“My mother used to go there 20 years ago. She used to take me there when she worked on Saturday afternoons,” he said.

“When it came up on the market I asked my mother if it was the same place and got butterflies when she said it was. It was ideal.”

Ross invested over £250,000 in the venture, along with his mother, Barbara Serino, and his partner, 33-year-old Rebecca Osbaldeston.

The three of them spent 2013 completing a major renovation at the pub, carefully restoring it to its former eighteenth-century glory.

“It was a natural thing to work with my mother,” he said. “She started a clothes shop and she also had a pub herself.

“I have a great working relationship with both my mum and Rebecca.

“I am very spontaneous though so sometimes they get left in the dark.”

After a successful first year the pub is starting to expand its menu.

It started serving Afternoon Tea at the beginning of December, as well as introducing seasonal menus last month.

Five Minutes with... Ross Serino

Favourite North-East building and why?

I know it is not exactly a building but my favourite structure is the Transporter bridge – it is one of the most iconic sites in Teesside.

What was your first job and how much did you get paid?

My first job was at Tall Trees Club M, in Yarm, collecting glasses at 15 years old. It certainly opened my eyes. It is a shame to see the way it is now when I drive past.

What is the worst job you've had?

When I was travelling in Sydney I got a job doing door-to-door sales. It was horrible, I only did the one day and then I quit.

What would you cook for me if I came around for dinner?

Homemade pappardelle pasta with king prawns, cherry tomatoes, chilli and lemon.

What would your superpower be?

The ability to predict the future - I think I would sleep better knowing what is round the corner.

Name four people, dead or alive, who would be at your perfect dinner party.

Robin Williams as he left us too soon, Michel Roux could be my kitchen hand, Jenson Button to talk Formula One and my girlfriend, Rebecca, because I would take any opportunity to have dinner with her.

FIVE minutes with Ross Serino who runs The Tuns at Sadberge, near Darlington.

Most expensive thing you've bought - other than car or house - and how much?

A holiday in the South of France.

Who is the best person to follow on Twitter and why?

Dan Bilzerian. He is a legend.

Favourite book?

Any Jo Nesbø book.

When did you last cry?

Last week watching The Supervet on Channel Four.

What is your greatest achievement?

Starting my own business!

What's the best piece of advice in business you've ever been given?

Don’t overcook your eggs...

Favourite animal and why.

Dogs, I love dogs.

Most famous person on your mobile phone.

My Dad, Vince Serino. He is pretty well-known locally.

What was the last band you saw live?

The Eagles in Leeds. They were brilliant.

Describe your perfect night in.

Logs on the fire, dinner and a bottle of red with my partner Rebecca.

In another life I would be...

A Formula One driver.

Who would play you in a film of your life?

Keanu Reeves, because I look like him apparently.

What irritates you?

Mess.

What's your secret talent?

Keeping calm under pressure.