TV chef Gary Rhodes has died in Dubai, aged 59.

The celebrity chef was best known for fronting programmes including MasterChef, Hell’s Kitchen and MasterChef USA.

In a statement, the family of Gary Rhodes said: "The Rhodes family are deeply saddened to announce the passing of beloved husband, father and brother, Gary Rhodes OBE.

"Gary passed away last evening, Tuesday 26th November 2019, at the age of 59, with his beloved wife Jennie by his side. The family would like to thank everyone for their support and ask for privacy during this time."

He owned two restaurants in Dubai.

Grosvenor House Dubai and Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa, where he worked, said in a statement: "The team... are devastated to hear of the tragic passing of Chef Gary Rhodes OBE.

"Not only has the industry lost a true culinary legend, we have also lost an inspirational human being and a very dear friend.

"No words can express our sadness at Gary's death or our gratitude for the opportunity to work with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Rhodes family."

Jaideep Bhatia, PR director of the Grosvenor House Dubai, told the PA news agency Mr Rhodes was working "until the day he died".

He said: "He arrived in Dubai in 2007 and had two restaurants, Rhodes 2010 at Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa, and Rhodes W1 at the Grosvenor.

"He was working until the day he died. He was working until Tuesday."

A number of chefs offered tributes to Rhodes, with Simon Hulstone tweeting: "Very sad to get a message this morning from Dubai informing me of the brilliant Chef and mentorGary Rhodes passing last night. What a shining star for British gastronomy. Rest well Chef."

Daniel Clifford posted: "Rest in peace a true British classic Gary Rhodes you open the door for so many young English cooks."

Jamie Oliver posted on Instagram: "Sadly Chef Gary Rhodes OBE passed away. My heart felt sympathies to his wife , kids, friends and family, sending love and thoughts.

"Gary was a fantastic chef and incredible ambassador for British cooking, he was a massive inspiration to me as a young chef. He reimagined modern British cuisine with elegance and fun. rest in peace Chef."

Gordon Ramsay ✔ @GordonRamsay We lost a fantastic chef today in Gary Rhodes. He was a chef who put British Cuisine on the map. Sending all the love and prayers to your wife and kids. You’ll be missed Gx View image on Twitter 2,449 9:42 AM - Nov 27, 2019 Twitter Ads info and privacy 350 people are talking about this TV chef James Martin posted: "Hugely influential in my life and the life of the British food scene. Gent and genius...RIP Gary, I can't believe you're gone."