JOHN Torode is seen publicly for the first time since his shock MasterChef axing.

The chef was photographed at an organic food shop close to his home in north London, where he picked up ingredients for a meal for his 60th on Wednesday.

John Torode walking down the street.
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John Torode has been photographed in public for the first time since his MasterChef sacking

John Torode walking his dog.
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The TV chef was seen looking stony-faced on a trip to the shops

John Torode walking his dog.
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John was photographed at an organic food shop close to his home in north London, picking up ingredients for a meal for his 60th birthday
Pals said John cooked for his wife Lisa Faulkner and their friends rather than celebrating publicly.

They added: “John had a quiet birthday meal with Lisa and some friends.

“It’s been an incredibly difficult time for him.”

John cut a lonely figure as he was pictured shopping.

He was seen just over a week after the BBC confirmed they were not renewing his MasterChef contract.

John was accused of saying the N-word twice, allegations he denies.

His MasterChef co-star Gregg Wallace also lost his job following an investigation by independent legal firm Lewis Silkin.

The probe upheld 45 claims against Gregg, 60, who was sacked earlier this month.

Gregg later released a statement and clarified that “none of the serious allegations” made against him were upheld.

He added: “I challenged the remaining issue of unwanted touching but have had to accept a difference in perception, and I am deeply sorry for any distress caused.

“It was never intended.”

Portrait of John Torode and Greg Wallace, Celebrity Masterchef judges.
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John and co-host Gregg Wallace have both lost their jobs after the MasterChef scandalCredit: Handout