Celebrity chef in racism row calls off festival date

TV celebrity chef John Torode has cancelled his appearance at this year's Seaham Food Festival amidst claims he used a racist term whilst working for the BBC.

- by Neil Fatkin

The allegation he had used an "an extremely offensive racist term" came to light as part of an investigation into the conduct of his MasterChef costar Gregg Wallace who was accused of using inappropriate sexual language.

Last week the popular celebrity chef was sacked from his position as MasterChef presenter after the BBC said the allegation has been upheld.

The Australian born chef, 59, was due to headline at this year's Seaham Food Festival which is due to take place on the weekend of August 2 and 3.