Chef’s hearty 50th challenge

CELEBRITY superchef Jean-Christophe Novelli celebrated his half century in February and decided to mark the occasion by teaming up with the British Heart Foundation, which also has a 50th birthday this year.

He took part in the Virgin Active Triathlon on Sunday as a fundraiser for the charity.

The award-winning chef, who runs his popular cookery academy from his Tea Green home, said: “Both the BHF and I were born in 1961 and what better way to celebrate this golden milestone? It was my birthday present to myself.” He added: “Triathlons are not just for the young – you have to keep your heart happy and healthy at all ages.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Jean-Christophe, dubbed the world’s sexiest chef by the New York Times, works tirelessly for charity.

He is a great supporter of Keech Hospice Care and last year donated the £10,000 winnings when he and his partner Michelle – mother of his two-year-old son – appeared on ITV’s Mr and Mrs. In addition, he has backed the Cancer Research UK appeal to donate unused kitchenware to their shops and is an ambassador for Sky Ride.

> To sponsor Jean and the BHF, visit www.justgiving.com/j-cnovelli