The host of the BBC's Masterchef, John Torode, has split from his wife after four years of marriage.
The 46-year-old chef separated from his wife Jessica over the Christmas holidays and it is believed he has already moved out of their £1.2 million family home in south-west London.
On New Year’s Eve, the chef cryptically told his Twitter followers: "Hello everyone, have been away but things needed doin..."
The couple have two children together, Jonah, seven, and five-year-old Lulu. Torode also has two children from a previous relationship, Marselle, 14, and Casper, 12.
The couple moved in together in 2001 and married six years later. Torode proposed by lining the hallway of their home with candles, buying a sapphire and diamond ring from Tiffany’s and then placing it inside a diary, in which he had written their prospective wedding date.
A spokesman for the star has said: "John has always preferred to keep his personal life private and at this time we hope that people respect this."
While last night a close friend said: "It is very sad, particularly considering they have young children. They were such a nice couple."
