Michelin-starred chef Raymond Blanc is today set to receive an honorary OBE for his services to the food industry.

Mr Blanc's restaurant Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons, in Great Milton, has two Michelin stars which the establishment has had for 19 years.

The honorary awards, which are granted on the advice of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, are given to people from overseas who have made a significant contribution to relations between the UK and their home country.

Mr Blanc, 58, started working in England as a waiter and got his big break when the chef called in sick.

As well as Le Manoir, Mr Blanc owns a chain of brasseries, including one in Oxford's Walton Street, Brasserie Blanc.

He also has his own cookery school and is the host of BBC television programme The Restaurant, where couples compete to open their own eateries.