A celebrity chef and restauranteur was seen in a Suffolk town this week – and even popped into an independent shop to sign some of his books.

Jamie Oliver visited Clare on Wednesday, where he was seen in Harris & Harris Books in High Street. 

Kate Harris, who owns the book shop, was delighted to see the TV star make a visit to her business.

She said: "It was very brief and it was quite the surprise. I really didn't expect to see him in the town. 

"I asked if he would mind signing some books and mind if I took a picture. Now it has all gone a bit busy on social media because of it, which is lovely." 

Sudbury Mercury: Jamie Oliver signing books in Harris & Harris Jamie Oliver signing books in Harris & Harris (Image: Harris & Harris Books)

Ms Harris said the sighting excited residents who were pleased to see the cookbook author visiting.

"The town was a-twitter with happy people saying 'oh have you seen him, is he here?'" she said.

"He was very friendly and very nice. I am sure he would rather be left alone to have a break and not be mobbed but he was very gracious and jolly."

Sudbury Mercury: Jamie Oliver in Harris & Harris BooksJamie Oliver in Harris & Harris Books (Image: Harris & Harris Books)

Ms Harris said she suggested to him that he may come for a signing event in the future. 

"There's always a smidge of hope that he might come back and do a proper event, which would be incredibly brilliant for Harris and Harris as well as the town and schools and children," she added.

Harris & Harris Books has been open in Clare for more than 10 years.

Sudbury Mercury: Kate Harris outside the new shop in OctoberKate Harris outside the new shop in October (Image: Harris & Harris Books)

It was located at 7b High Street, but moved to the larger premises at 3a, the former Hudgies Hardware store, in October 2023. 

The shop sells new and old books of all genres for all ages and also offers bespoke personal shopping for gifts, as well as next day orders.