The star of TV's The F Word and Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares was in the city to sign copies of his new book Cooking For Friends.

And with a bit of luck, his legion of foodie fans might just be seeing a bit more of him.

Asked whether he had any plans to open a restaurant in Leeds, he said: "I would love to open one here. We've just opened in Paris. Next stop Leeds? Maybe. This area certainly produces the best lamb in the world."

The chef - famous for his four-letter outbursts - said he was blown away by the size of the crowd, adding: "It's quite nervewracking but it is an amazing reception.

"It's great to be here. It's nice to be able to share tit bits, ideas on what's for dinner - and the odd curse!"

Of his book he said: "I started out with this kind of food and then I built myself up and went through the divisions. Cooking for Friends is something I wrote at home - I had the help of the kids, too, which was a nightmare!"

Peter Casling from Ilkley had the lucky golden ticket to meet Gordon first. He had been in the queue for more than five hours by the time his idol arrived.

He said: "He's a really funny guy. I really like his shows, especially Kitchen Nightmares.

"We've been here a long time but it's definitely worth it to get to meet him."

Christine Davis from Dewsbury queued for almost four hours to see the celebrity chef. She said: "It's my birthday today so this is how I've chosen to spend it. He's worth it though. I think he's a lovely man - a real softie at heart."

Tanya Solomons, a student, had waited almost four hours, too. She said: "He seems like a really nice guy, very funny and confident and a good TV presenter."