Monica Galetti to leave MasterChef after 14 years

Monica Galetti has announced she is to step down as a judge on the next series of MasterChef: The Professionals.

The chef has been part of the show for 14 years, working first with Michel Roux Jr and Gregg Wallace and later Marcus Wareing.

Galetti said she is temporarily taking a step back to focus on her family and her London restaurant Mere, which she runs alongside her husband David.

In a post on Instagram, Galetti wrote: "It is with a heavy heart that after 14yrs I've made this decision to step back from filming this year's series of MasterChef: The Professionals.

"My family need me, my restaurant needs me and trying to balance long filming days over the next three months with all my commitments meant that something had to give.

"So, for the moment, my focus has to be 100% about my loved ones and rebuilding my kitchen team who have had a battering over the last few months especially. Those in the hospitality industry know just how tough it is at the moment."

The BBC One show has not yet confirmed who will step in as Galetti's replacement.

David Ambler, executive editor of MasterChefUK, said: "Monica is one of the most talented chefs of her generation, and we fully support her decision. We have worked together closely for the past 14 years and regard Monica as an integral member of the MasterChef family.

"Our hope is this situation is just for this season and the door is always open for her return."

Galetti said she hoped to be "back soon" and would be the show's "number one supporter from the sidelines".

She added: "To my fellow judges and friends Marcus and Gregg – I'll be watching – you've got this! If you're ever unsure just think – what would Mon do?!"