Anna Haugh to replace Monica Galetti as MasterChef judge

Anna Haugh, chef patron of Myrtle restaurant in London's Chelsea, is to join Marcus Wareing and Gregg Wallace as a judge on series 15 of BBC's MasterChef: The Professionals competition.

The announcement comes after judge Monica Galetti revealed she was stepping down from filming to balance the needs of her London restaurant Mere and her family.

Haugh said: "MasterChef has an impeccable reputation and legacy within the hospitality industry. I have long-admired Monica as an incredible chef and she's paved the way for female chefs. It's a privilege to be keeping her seat warm in the MasterChef kitchen."

Haugh has been cooking professionally for almost 20 years. She started her apprenticeship in L'Ecrivain in Dublin before working in Paris for Gualtiero Marchesi. When she moved to London, she worked with Shane Osborn at Pied a Terre, Philip Howard at the Square and then was head chef in the opening of London House for Gordon Ramsay.

MasterChef executive editor David Ambler said: "Anna brings a wealth of culinary expertise and experience to the competition, and we're delighted to welcome her as a judge on MasterChef: The Professionals."

BBC commissioning editor, entertainment, Sarah Clay added: "Anna is a wonderful addition to the MasterChef family, her food knowledge is exceptional. I'm looking forward to seeing her critiques and bringing her warmth and enthusiasm to the kitchen."

MasterChef: The Professionals will return to BBC One later this year.