A much-loved Marlow chef has had to retire indefinitely due to ill health.

Carol Newell, who ran Carol’s Kitchen and was the head cook at Marlow’s Prince of Wales pub in Mill Road, had to leave her post at the start of the month following a serious heart issue.

READ MORE: Popular Marlow pub thanks Bucks Free Press' readers

In a Facebook statement that was published on December 1, the Prince of Wales said: “To all our loyal customers, please be advised that due to Carol’s ill health, we will be closing Carol's Kitchen for the next two weeks.

“We will keep you updated.”

READ MORE: FOOD REVIEW: Why the Prince of Wales is a go to place in Marlow

A week later on December 8, the Prince of Wales posted the following statement: Carol's Kitchen would like to thank all our customers that have been with us for a lot of years, plus all our new customers that came to the Prince of Wales when we moved.

“We really value each and every one of you.

“It is with heavy heart that due to ill health we are closing down Carol's Kitchen for good.

Bucks Free Press:

The Prince of Wales in Marlow

“We loved looking after you all over the years and will miss you all terribly, we wish you all a merry Christmas and a happy new year.”

Carol’s Kitchen at the pub was regarded as one of the best places to eat in South Bucks following several of our Readers’ Choice suggestions.

READ MORE: The five best places for a Sunday Roast in South Bucks - as voted for by you

We asked the people of South Bucks in September and October, the best places in the county to eat a Sunday Roast and a cooked breakfast.

Carol’s Kitchen top the cooked breakfast poll and came second in the Sunday Roast rankings.

READ MORE: The five best places for a cooked breakfast in South Bucks - as voted for by you

Following her retirement, Carol told the Bucks Free Press: “Due to heart problems, we have finished at the Prince of Wales.

“I was rushed into hospital with heart problems, so with my family, I decided to retire from the Prince of Wales for good.

“I will miss all our customers, but my health comes first.”

The Prince of Wales confirmed that they have a new chef and food is still available.