RAYMOND Blanc became embroiled in a spat with The Great British Bake Off finalist Ruby Tandoh after he suggested that she was too thin to appreciate good food.

The French-born TV chef also angered fans of the hit BBC Two baking show when he appeared to reveal the winner of the fourth series on Twitter.

But Raymond, 63, later apologised to Bake Off co-host Paul Hollywood for his comment, which he blamed on the fact that he is a "Frenchman writing English", and said that he had no idea who will be crowned best amateur baker this week.

Echo: Raymond Blanc

The restauranter sparked anger when he wrote: "The Great British Bake Off. Not much skills, female tears a nd a winner so thin who makes me doubt of her love for great cooking, baking."

Former model Ruby, 21, of Southend,  who is favourite to win, hit back, writing: "@raymond_blanc 'female tears'?! and what has anyone's size got to do with it?

"I don't care if you're a patisserie king - don't be an idiot."

Viewers complained that the How To Cook Well presenter had ruined the finale, with one writing: "You've ruined this for millions of viewers!" and another added: "Thanks for spoiling #NotImpressed."

Paul, who presents Bake Off, which is set to move to BBC One next year, with Mary Berry, wrote: "Wow Raymond have you seen the winner already ???"

Raymond later apologised, tweeting Paul: "Apologies if I upset people this morning. I would like to congratulate you on a show. Best Rb xx"

He added: "It seems my tweet was not written how it was meant to. Frenchman writing English! I'm sorry I do not know who the winner is."

He told his Twitter followers: "OK, sorry guys, I was a grumpy Frenchman this morning. I don't know who has won #GBBO, but can't wait to find out..."

Ruby will be competing against Frances Quinn, 31, and Kimberley Wilson, 30, on Tuesday's (October 22) show.