Stony-faced John Torode, 60, breaks cover for first time since shock MasterChef sacking
The chef was photographed at an organic food shop close to his home in north London, where he picked up ingredients for a meal for his 60th birthday.
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Pals said John cooked for his wife Lisa Faulkner and their friends rather than celebrating publicly on Wednesday.
They added: 'John had a quiet birthday meal with Lisa and some friends.
'It's been an incredibly difficult time for him.'
John cut a lonely figure as he was pictured shopping.
not renewing his MasterChef contract.
John was accused of saying the N-word twice, allegations he denies.
His MasterChef co-star Gregg Wallace also lost his job following an investigation by independent legal firm Lewis Silkin.
The probe upheld 45 claims against Gregg, 60, who was sacked earlier this month.
Gregg later released a statement and clarified that 'none of the serious allegations' made against him were upheld.
He added: 'I challenged the remaining issue of unwanted touching but have had to accept a difference in perception, and I am deeply sorry for any distress caused.
'It was never intended.'
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