Celebrity Chef Tim Bilton named as Weston Park Cancer Charity Patron

Tim, who is living with stage four cancer, was first diagnosed with a rare type of melanoma in 2013 after his wife Adele spotted an unusual shadow in his eye. At the time, the ambitious chef was preparing to open his second restaurant and aiming for a Michelin star.

“I was so proud when I opened my first restaurant. I’d regularly put in 17-hour days, determined to one day have a Michelin star,” said Tim. “For a long time, it felt like nothing could stop me from achieving my dream.”

“Being diagnosed with cancer is like being hit by a steam train. For me, it was a huge wake-up call. I realised that I could work all the hours in the world, but nothing was more important than spending time with my two young boys and my wonderful wife.”

Tim has now been through multiple surgeries. He's also had frequent chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy at Weston Park Hospital.

“I couldn’t be more grateful to the incredible staff at Weston Park Hospital who have been with me through it all,” said Tim. “They’ve given me the most precious gift there is: more time with my amazing family and friends.

“My cancer is now incurable, but I refuse to let it define me. I just focus on making life as normal as possible for my family and enjoying every moment I have with them.”

“I was so humbled to be asked to be a patron of Weston Park Cancer Charity,” said Tim. “Without Weston Park and the cancer charity I wouldn’t be here today. As patron, I’ll be focusing on raising awareness and raising as much as possible for research. Together, we will find even better treatments for cancer patients.”

Tim is now calling on people across the region to back the Charity’s Christmas Star appeal. The appeal will support cancer research and services for anyone affected by cancer in South Yorkshire, North Derbyshire and North Nottinghamshire.

Speaking about the campaign, Tim said: “Weston Park Cancer Charity provides such amazing support to people and families living with the impact of cancer. That ranges from therapy through to transport to appointments. Money raised through this year’s Christmas Star appeal will also fund life-saving research. I hope people deep dig and give what they can to support this vital cause.”

Emma Clarke, CEO of Weston Park Cancer Charity, said: “Tim’s support of the charity has been nothing short of amazing. We’re delighted to announce him as our newest patron. We look forward to working closely with Tim as we strive to create a better life for everyone in our region who is affected by cancer.”

Your donation this Christmas will help us to provide emotional, financial and practical support to people in the region who are living with cancer.