Culinary television star Paul Hollywood has cancelled a book-signing appearance after splitting from his wife of 15 years

The 47-year-old had been due to appear at an event to sign copies of his book Paul Hollywood's Bread, which accompanies his TV show, at Waterstones in Glasgow today.

Hollywood has become a heartthrob after his appearances in The Great British Bake Off.

However, the relationship between Hollywood and his wife, Alexandra, has now faltered and confirmation comes just days after he turned up to the TV Baftas without her.

He had recently been working on a US version of the contest called The American Baking Competition with Marcela Valladolid, 34, taking the place of cookery guru Mary Berry who starred in the BBC2 version.

A statement from Hollywood's agent said: "We confirm Paul Hollywood has separated from his wife.

"Their priority is protecting their son. He will be making no further comment on this private matter."

The cookery expert has told how he has become a sex symbol thanks to his TV appearances. In an interview, he said recently: "My wife finds it hilarious – I get marriage proposals, maybe one a week."

Hollywood, from Wallasey on Merseyside, was the head baker at a number of smart hotels before finding TV fame, launching his own artisan bread firm and writing books.