British chef Bill Gallagher paralysed after Johannesburg carjack shooting

Bill Gallagher, one of the best-known British chefs working abroad, has been shot and paralysed during an attempted car hijacking in South Africa.

The chef, who was the former president of the World Association of Cooks Societies (WACS), was shot through the window of his car while at traffic lights in the Modderfontein district of Johannesburg. He was on his way home from work.

The bullet pierced Gallagher's shoulder and has damaged his spinal cord.

"We will only know in three to four months' time whether he will regain the use of his fingers," said his son Mark.

It is understood that the attackers ran off when Gallagher's car hit the one in front.

The chef, who originates from Newcastle, emigrated to South Africa 25 years ago.

He is chairman of the South African Chefs Association and food and beverage director of one of the country's biggest hotel groups, Southern Sun.

During his years in South Africa, Gallagher has won a host of international accolades as well as overseeing the running of the Culinary Olympics during his presidency of WACS. His role as president expired in January when he was awarded an honorary life presidency.

Source: Caterer & Hotelkeeper magazine, 16 - 22 March 2000