West Cumbria is set to have a taste of American smoked food with the opening of a new kitted-out burger van.

Dan Winthrop, from Maryport, is set to open the hatch of AJ's Smokehouse, on Workington's Adams Road, on Thursday (May, 2). 

The stationary trailer, with its in-house smokers, will be offering everything in the way of BBQ ribs, smoked brisket, burgers, and Philly cheese steaks as well as an extensive vegan menu.  

Dan, who also runs Maryport Travel and Workington's Car Wash, said: "We were considering a restaurant move first but we've gone with the burger van idea to keep our prices and overheads low. 

"When we were looking around, literally there's nothing like it in Cumbria. It's the only place from what we can find but dedicated to home-smoked food." 

Led by chef Mark Scot-Smith behind the hatch, AJ's prides itself on its authentic and locally sourced produce. 

"We've done a few tests to tweak the recipes and it smells amazing.

"Everything we make apart from mayonnaise is by ourselves, our own ranch sauce, BBQ sauce - everything's original," Dan said. 

Operating initially from Wednesdays to Saturdays from 11 am to 7 pm, AJ's Smokehouse aims to cater to the lunch and dinner crowds, with plans to extend hours as demand grows. 

"We started advertising yesterday morning and so far we've been invited for four events, I'm disappointed we can't move it but we're looking at getting a smaller touring trailer next year," Dan said. 

The van will also be offering deliveries in Workington from Thursday, with expansion plans and appearances on food delivery apps on the horizon.  

"We're delivering to Workington but we hope to build up to Maryport over the weekend all the way from Cockermouth to Whitehaven. 

"We want it to succeed because it's something different," he said. 

To arrange a delivery, you can call 01900 354096 or you can find AJ's Smokehouse on Facebook.