'Brilliant' chef took his own life despite success

An inquest has heard how a "brilliant" chef who trained under Rick Stein in Padstow, Cornwall, and went on to run one of the most admired restaurants in Plymouth ended his own life, after struggling with his mental health.

- BY CARL EVE

The inquest into the death of 41-year-old Lee Holland was held at Exeter County Hall by area coroner Nicholas Lane. He was found dead at his flat in Hawkers Avenue, Plymouth, on October 26, 2023.

Staff at The Catch, on the Barbican's Southside Street, described the 41-year-old as "our brilliant head chef, manager and driving force behind The Catch". In a tribute to him, they added: "Lee was an absolute powerhouse of talent, his culinary skills, depth of knowledge of seafood and ability to create menus that balanced flavour with artistic flair was pure genius."

Mr Lane read out statements from members of Lee's close family who explained how Lee, who was born in Hackney, had suffered physical and psychological abuse at a young age.

He went on to start a career in hospitality, beginning with his first job as pot washer in a kitchen. However, this became a passion in his life and his he studied to become a chef.