MasterChef and Ready Steady Cook celeb chef Ross Burden dies at 45

The TV cook died on July 17 in his home nation following a battle with cancer.

14:27 28 July 2014

Celebrity chef Ross Burden, who became a household name in the UK after appearing on MasterChef and Ready Steady Cook, has died at the age of 45 following a battle with cancer.

The chef, who was born in New Zealand, was diagnosed with a form of leukemia in July last year. He contracted an infection after undergoing a bone marrow transplant recently.

His sister, Kirsten Hughes, said that his death was unexpected. She added: 'He's just a friendly, compassionate guy - nothing was too much trouble. He was my big, fantastic incredible, larger-than-life brother.

'Right up until probably a week-and-a-half ago, he was making his next lot of plans. He had the world map out,'
Right after the news, fellow TV stars and celebrity chefs immediately paid him tribute.

James Martin tweeted: 'Just heard the sad news my old Ready, Steady, Cook colleague Ross Burden has passed away. My thoughts go out to friends and family. RIP Ross'

Phil Vickery added: 'Very sad news my friend and fellow chef Ross Burden died today!’

Aldo Zilli wrote: 'Remembering the good times on this very sad day for the Ross Burden family my thoughts are with you.'