A young chef who worked at Rick Stein's Cornish Arms pub has been found dead in staff accommodation in Cornwall.
The man, who was in his 30s, was discovered at a property on Grenville Road in Padstow on Thursday, February 13.
Emergency services were called to the address at around 8pm following concerns for his welfare.
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed the death is not being treated as suspicious and the man's next of kin have been informed.
The chef was described as a "much-loved" and "valued" member of staff at the celebrity chef's establishment.
A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "Police were called to Grenville Road, Padstow, at around 8pm on Thursday, February 13, following a concern for the welfare of a man in a property. Sadly, a man in his 30s was declared deceased at the scene."
Rick Stein owns the pub where the chef worked
PAIan Fitzgerald, managing director of Rick Stein Restaurants, said: "We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of one of our chefs on Thursday, February 13."
"There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death, but out of respect for the family's wishes for privacy during this difficult time, we will not be sharing further details."
He added: "Our heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends and all who knew him. He was a valued and much-loved member of our team and will be greatly missed."
The statement was issued shortly after the incident was reported to emergency services.
Rick Stein regularly appears on-screen in a series of BBC shows
BBC
The restaurant group has requested privacy for the family during this difficult period.
The property where the chef was found is used as staff accommodation for the Rick Stein Company.
Officers attended the address after receiving reports of concern for the man's welfare. The man was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police have confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.
Stein purchased The Cornish Arms pub in 2009 alongside his ex-wife and business partner, Jill Stein.
At the time, they made a commitment to maintain it as a traditional Cornish pub.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
The establishment is part of the wider Rick Stein Group, a family-run business that has grown significantly over the years.
The group now employs more than 600 people across its various ventures.
The business empire includes multiple restaurants, a cookery school, shops and guest rooms.
A large portion of the group's operations are based in Padstow, Cornwall.
