Simon Rimmer was absent from the latest episode of Sunday Brunch after he suffered the loss of his dad Peter, who he described as his ‘hero’.

In a post shared on Instagram earlier this week, the chef uploaded a photo of himself with his arm around his father.

‘It is with great sadness that I have to announce the death of my hero, my dad Peter,’ he wrote in the caption, as he was inundated with supportive messages from his fans and fellow celebrities including Ruth Langsford, Louise Atkinson and Ashley Banjo.

On Sunday July 2, Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch began at its usual time of 9.30am, but Simon, 60, wasn’t at his usual post fronting the programme.

Instead, his co-host Tim Lovejoy was joined by TV presenter Miquita Oliver, as they both sent their love to their colleague.

‘Good morning and welcome to Sunday Brunch live on Channel 4. I’m Tim Lovejoy,’ Tim began, as Miquita added: ‘And I’m Miquita Oliver.’

Tim continued: ‘Miquita is here today, welcome Miquita. How are you, are you well? As you may know, Simon has stepped away from the show this week, but we are sending him our love.’

Miquita added: ‘Yes, Simon we’re sending you all of our love.’

On Sunday morning, Simon shared a new post on his Instagram after taking his dog for a walk, thanking everyone who had sent him heartwarming messages.

‘I am overwhelmed at all the beautiful messages about my dad. We’re taking it one day at a time and looking out for each other and especially my mum,’ he wrote in the caption.

‘A windy walk with Cali at New Brighton whilst talking to dad helped x.’

After Simon shared his original post about his dad’s death, Loose Women star Ruth commented: ‘Oh Simon….I’m so, so sorry to hear that. Heartbreaking for you and the family. Hold your memories close, nobody can take those away. Sending you love ❤️.’

Former Strictly Come Dancing star Louise said: ‘Ahh Simon I’m so sorry for you.
You’re in my thoughts and sending lots of love ❤️,’ while reality star Vicky Pattison wrote: ‘So sorry for your loss Simon… sending you and your family loads of love x.’

Alexandra Burke also added: ‘My darling sending you so much love. I’m so sorry xxx.’

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The presenters of the show sent Simon their love.