Legendary chef Michel Roux has died aged 79, his family have said.
The French-born chef opened Britain's first Michelin-starred restaurant Le Gavroche alongside his brother Albert back in the 1960s. It went on to become the first British restaurant to earn two and then three Michelin stars.
Michel's family said in a statement: "It is with deep sadness that the Roux family announces the passing of our beloved grandfather, father, brother and uncle, Michel Roux OBE.
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"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."
Alongside running restaurants, Roux also set up The Roux Scholarship - a prestigious competition for up and coming chefs that offers 'a career-changing opportunity' to spend three months at a three Michelin starred restaurant.
In a statement The Roux Scholarship said: "We are deeply saddened to have lost our founding father, Michel Roux OBE.
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"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 Michelin Guide paid tribute to Roux on Twitter, writing: "Michel Roux OBE was a true titan of the hospitality industry. He inspired a whole generation of chefs and the UK restaurant scene would not be what it is today were it not for his influence. Our thoughts are with his family and the many who worked with this legendary chef."
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Featured Image Credit: PA