Legendary chef Michel Roux dies after long illness

Legendary chef and restauranteur Michel Roux has died at the age of 79.

He passed away at his home in Bray, Berkshire after battling with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in his later years.

His family confirmed the news, with Michel's son Alain and his daughters Francine and Christine saying: "It is with deep sadness that the Roux family announces the passing of our beloved grandfather, father, brother and uncle, Michel Roux OBE.

"The family would like to thank everyone for their support during his illness. While many of you will share our great sense of loss, we request privacy for the family at this difficult time."

They went on: "We are grateful to have shared our lives with this extraordinary man and we’re so proud of all he’s achieved.

"A humble genius, legendary chef, popular author and charismatic teacher, Michel leaves the world reeling in his wake.

"For many, he was a father figure inspiring all with his insatiable appetite for life and irresistible enthusiasm. But above all, we will miss his mischievous sense of fun, his huge, bottomless heart and generosity and kindness that knew no bounds.

"Michel's star will shine forever lighting the way for a generation of chefs to follow."

The chef opened iconic London restaurant Le Gavroche in 1967 with his brother Albert, and it became the first three Michelin-starred dining experience in Britain in 1982.

Michel and Albert also opened Waterside Inn in Bray, which was also awarded three Michelin stars in 1985.

He passed the latter down to his son Alain in 2002, and was awarded an OBE in the same year.

The restaurant remains the only in the country to have retained three-Michelin-starred status for 35 years.

Michel met wife Robyn in 1982, and she moved from her home in Australia to assist him with the Waterside Inn.

She passed away in 2017 after a two year illness, and was credited by Michel as being his inspiration over their 35 years together.

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