Tributes paid following death of head baker at Michelin-starred Wilsons

Tributes have been paid towards the head baker of a bread shop tied to a Michelin-starred restaurant in Bristol.

Wilsons is a small, independently owned and run farm-to-table restaurant, co-founded in 2016 by partners Jan Ostle & Mary Wilson.

It received its Green Michelin Star in 2021, recognising the restaurant's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Ben Martin was the head baker at Wilsons Bread Shop in Redland, Bristol.

He was known for his incredible talent and dedication to his craft before sadly passing away recently.

The restaurant was also awarded a Michelin Star at the 2025 Michelin Guide Awards in Glasgow, which Ben was a major part of helping to acheive.

A spokesperson for Wilsons said: “Dear friends, it is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to let you know about the passing of our dear friend and colleague Ben Martin.

“I don’t have adequate words to express how loved and cherished he was and how missed he will be.

"Ben’s kindness, compassion and humanity was only matched by his incredible talent and brilliance for a job he loved. We have had absolute pleasure of working with him for the last 3 years, he has made Wilson’s and the bread shop what it is today.

“He leaves behind his mother Dee and father Sean and too many friends to count.

“The bakery will be closed for a minimum of a week, in the meantime the door to bread shop will be open and a book of condolences there for anyone who wishes to sign it.

“We love you sweet prince.”

Multiple restaurants and chefs took to social media to share their condolences towards Ben and Wilsons.

Mark McCabe said: “I’m so, so sorry. We only met once but he was very helpful and kind that day. Thinking of you all.”

Alchemilla Restaurant added: “My heart is broken. He was such a beautiful soul. You will be sorely missed baby ben.”

Food enthusiast Gemma Bell added: “Sending so much love and heartfelt condolences to Ben’s family and to all at Wilsons who worked and loved Ben so much.”