Heston Blumenthal 'splits with wife, starts dating cookery star'

Celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal has confirmed the end of his 20-year marriage.

The Heston's Mission Impossible star announced his split from wife Zanna this week and is now said to be dating actress-turned-cookery writer Suzanne Pirret.

A spokesperson for the couple, who have three teenage children together, elaborated on their separation yesterday, saying: "Over the course of their marriage, they have built an extremely successful business, but one which has unfortunately taken its toll on their relationship.

"They remain good friends and devoted parents of their three children who are their main focus."

In a 2007 interview, Heston described his wife as "the reason for [his] success" and praised her for having "sacrificed so much and never complained."

The pair previously weathered a health scare at Heston's famed Fat Duck restaurant, which was forced to close in February 2009 after 40 diners fell ill. Six members of staff were later found to have been infected with norovirus.