The Restaurant star Raymond Blanc receives honorary OBE

Raymond Blanc, Michelin-starred chef and star of TV's The Restaurant, has been presented with an honorary OBE for his services to British food.

The Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons chef patron was presented with his honour yesterday by culture secretary Andy Burnham.

Burnham said: "I am delighted to present Raymond Blanc with this honorary OBE. His restaurant and country house hotel are by-words for excellence and quality."

Blanc, who has lived in the UK for 30 years and opened Le Manoir in 1984, said: "I am proud to have my contribution to the British food industry recognised in such a privileged way and I look forward to contributing so much more in the future."

The Restaurant concludes on Wednesday and Caterer will feature an exclusive interview with Raymond Blanc this Thursday (30 October).

We also speak to David Moore, proprietor of two-Michelin-starred restaurant Pied à Terre, who is one of the expert judges on The Restaurant.

For more on the chef see our dedicated Raymond Blanc page >>

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By Chris Druce

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