Tributes have flooded in for talented chef Paul Kitching after his sudden death at the age of 61, praising him as a "genius" and "one of Britain's greatest chefs".
Born in Gateshead, the acclaimed chef was beloved by diners for his inventive dishes, running the Juniper restaurant in Manchester where he won a Michelin Star for his work in 1997. Paul then made the move to Edinburgh with his partner Katie O'Brien in 2008 and the pair set up the popular 21212 restaurant in the city, picking up yet another Michelin Star in 2010.
Katie announced the news of her partner's death on the 21212 Twitter page, posting a photo of Paul alongside the caption: "My love is gone. But what a love."
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In a message to customers on the e-mail list for the restaurant, Katie wrote: "Dear friends, it is with heavy heart that I write to let you know that I've lost my love - Paul - who sadly passed away yesterday.
"The death has come as a total shock to us at 21212 and we are trying to come to terms with the passing of a legend within our industry. Paul was an inspirational figure to everyone who ever had the pleasure of meeting him or working with him and we are all devastated."
Following the sad announcement, figures from the hospitality industry paid tribute to Paul as they praised the chef's incomparable talents. The Michelin Guide Twitter account issued a heartfelt statement: "Paul Kitching was kind, clever, hugely talented and infectiously enthusiastic.
"He was also a true maverick and his passion and creativity were evident in every dish he created. Our heartfelt sympathies go to Katie and all his family."
Simon Rogan, who owns the Michelin-starred restaurant L'Enclume in Cumbria, wrote: "Incredibly sad to hear of the passing of Paul Kitching - a great man and massive talent. There was no one like him. I’ll never forget the nuttiest but most memorable meals. A true inspiration to me."
Gary Usher, who runs the Elite Bistros restaurant group, added: "This is awful news, I'm so so sorry. He was so kind to me when I needed an arm around me more than ever. He was one in a million and a genius too."
Former MasterChef judge John Benson-Smith said he was "devastated" by the news, while Jay Rayner described Paul as "quietly one of Britain's great chefs".
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