Tributes paid following death of Mark Heirs

Tributes have been made for Mark Heirs, an award winning personal chef, following the announcement of his death.

He received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including three AA Rosettes and recognition in the Michelin Guide.

Mark also appeared in the first series of BBC’s Masterchef: The Professionals and was awarded ‘Nominee lockdown community hero’ at the Staff Canteen Awards in 2020.

Growing up in the hospitality industry, he began his career in his parents' pubs and restaurants.

After attending catering college in Glasgow, he refined his skills in prestigious establishments such as Glasgow’s One Devonshire Gardens and Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck.

As a personal chef, Mark travelled globally, cooking for an exclusive clientele, including Hollywood stars and top business leaders.

A statement on social media from hospitality charity, Springboard, read: “Our hearts are heavy as we share the devastating news of Mark Heirs' passing – a cherished supporter, mentor, and friend to all at Springboard, as well as an internationally renowned personal chef who has graced Michelin Star kitchens during his impressive career.

“Mark's dedication to Springboard FutureChef, generous mentorship and culinary wisdom ignited career paths and shaped the future of many of our students over the years. While words fall short, we find solace knowing that his legacy lives through every aspiring chef he inspired. The Springboard Charity will forever treasure his unwavering belief in nurturing potential and his countless contributions to our mission.”

Helen Vass, a Scottish pastry chef added: “Such sad news to hear the passing of chef Mark Heirs. He was such a kind and talented man. Always out to help the future generation of chefs. His enthusiasm, passion and skills will be a great loss to the industry. My thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Written by Abi Kinsella