Judge throws out court case against Jean-Christophe Novelli

Celebrity chef Jean-Christophe Novelli has had a court case brought against him by a former contractor thrown out by a judge.

David Macbeth had been hired by Novelli to negotiate a deal with Stanley Casinos for the chef to consult on the company’s food offering.

However, talks between Macbeth and Stanley Casinos broke down, forcing Novelli to personally negotiate the terms of the contract. Novelli consequently decided not to pay Macbeth for his services according to the terms of their agreement.

Macbeth took Novelli to court alleging non-payment of fees but the case was last week thrown out by a judge at Luton County Court on the grounds that there was no merit to his claims.

Novelli said that he had known Macbeth for a number of years and he had given him the opportunity to assist him.

“I knew he was looking for work and I felt sorry for him and wanted to help,” he said.

“But he took advantage of me and my staff and then wrongfully issued proceedings against me, resulting in today’s attendance in court.”

Novelli added: “Because of my name some people want to take advantage of me but I hope they will now realise that there can be a price to pay when they try to waste my time.”

Earlier this summer, Novelli was granted an interim injunction to stop the new owners of the White Horse in Harpenden – which he used to consult on - from using his name.

The High Court interim order forced Urban and Country Inns, which bought the White Horse in January, to remove the name Novelli from all signs and menus.

Jean-Christophe Novelli gets injunction against new White Horse owner >>

Former Auberge du Lac chef launches North London restaurant >>

Jean-Christophe Novelli to launch second gastropub >>

By Kerstin Kühn

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