Former MasterChef judge John Torode had his celebrity friends rushing to show their support as he issued an emotional statement about his wife Lisa Faulkner. The ex-BBC star, who presents an ITV show alongside his co-star spouse, took to Instagram this week to share a series of photographs of Lisa as he celebrated her birthday.

A clearly emotional John wrote: “Happy Happy Birthday to this extraordinary human. Happy Birthday my love Lisa Faulkner. You always shine with hope and love, you light up every room with joy. So kind, so caring and so selfless. Love you Lisa. Happy Birthday my rock, my best friend, my love.”

Included alongside the sweet message was a snap of John and Lisa together, faces pressed close as they enjoyed a wintery walk in the hills.

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He also featured a snap of Lisa standing outside a photo booth, and on stage for her theatre show Single White Female, in which she stars alongside Kym Marsh.

Their showbiz friends soon chimed in to comment on the post, with singer Lulu writing: “Happy birthday my beautiful friend. I love you.”

Amanda Holden echoed: “Happiest birthday to the gorgeous girl that is Lisa Faulkner.”

Chef Matt Tebbutt wrote: “Happy birthday lovely!” while Lisa’s stage co-star Kym Marsh added: “She’s a special one!! Lisa Faulkner happy birthday!”

Lisa kicked off her birthday celebrations with breakfast at a cafe with John, before her Single White Female co-stars surprised her on-stage with balloons and presents.