The 43-year-old had to face allegations that he had been unfaithful to his wife as well as the fact his businesses were suffering in the recession.

Asked how he dealt with the last 13 months, he said to UK magazine Stylist: “It has been challenging, but there have been a huge number of positives, such as the triumph of [his protege] Angela Hartnett, the successful launches in South Africa, and Hell’s Kitchen USA attracting its highest-ever viewing figures.

“Most importantly, all of my UK restaurants, despite the recession, have performed very well. You overcome hurdles and you come out wiser and stronger.”