ANDREW Michael Gibbs, well-respected chef and pub owner, has died aged 47.

The father-of-one and grandfather of four began cooking at a very early age and was determined to be a chef.

Mr Gibbs, of Lindley, studied at Huddersfield New College and later the Technical College before starting work in the kitchen at the Quo Vadis Restaurant in the town centre.

He later had spells at the Huddersfield Hotel and the Huntsman, above Holmfirh. He then took over as owner and landlord of the Martin's Nest Inn on Bradford Road, Brighouse.

His mother, Jean Cleary, said she can remember that even as a small boy her son was obsessed with the kitchen.

"He always wanted to help out and always had ideas about food and the way it should be cooked," she said.

"Andrew was an expert at sauces and even when, because of his bad health, he could not have much salt, he made some wonderful sauces without it.

"He also had a brilliant wit and always had people laughing. I am sure people will remember him like that."

Mr Gibbs lost his three-year battle with liver and kidney failure on March 11. He leaves his mother, son Steven, 24, and grandchildren Amber, six, Lisa-Marie, four, Joanna, two, and Jade, who is just seven weeks old.