Much loved Hadleigh cookery expert Mark (Marko) David has today been described as a 'local legend and top bloke' after he died suddenly.

Mr David passed away on Wednesday morning after suffering a suspected heart attack.

The co-owner of the Cooking Experience, based in Hadleigh High Street, was well known for providing bespoke lessons and was aregylat expert on BBC Radio Suffolk.

Mr David's daughter posted on Facebook:

"It's with great sadness and a heavy heart that I have to announce that my Dad, Mark David died suddenly earlier on this morning.

As many of you will know he was a complete one off. A wonderful man who enjoyed nothing more than bringing joy and happiness to all he met.

Marko/Dad/Granda has left the world with an amazing legacy. 3 kids, 3 adopted kids (in laws), 8 grandchildren and of course my mum Annie David whom he was happily married to for 45 years. We will all miss him very much.

I know more than anything right now that he'd be wanting all of you to be with your loved ones and celebrating his life.

With this in mind, wherever you are in the world, please grab yourselves a drink and raise a toast to the legend that is Sandeman Mark David."

Many people also took to social media to share their memories and send their condolences.

Among those was Helen Allan: "So sorry to read this. Marko was a local legend and a top bloke! Helped Hadleigh cares throughout the pandemic cooking for the community. Will miss seeing him around town and on his bicycle!

Kay Curtis wrote: "I did a memorable master class on the Aga in Knightsbridge. A delightful man."

Meanwhile, Gargi Bhattacharya added: "Very very sorry Annie and whole family for this immense loss. I had attended whole day baking at Hadleigh in 2019, I still treasure the experience. Rest in peace Marko."

The Cooking Experience website.