But Roger, of Newquay, who is now divorcing his wife, says the couple have "ruined his life". He said: "I can't believe it. I feel sick. After all the hurt they've put me through they're now rubbing my face in it all over again.

"The pair of them have ruined my life. We were very happy until he seduced her with his flashy ways, and now I am facing bankruptcy.

"While I contemplate how I am going to make ends meet, there they are posing like loved-up teenagers for a posh new restaurant. I'm in shock."

Roger, a former Nimrod engineer, uncovered their affair when he found incriminating text messages after she began working at his Viner's in Newquay.

He says his marriage "fell apart" in six months, he attempted suicide and was even arrested when he tried to confront the lovers about their relationship.

Roger says he is in the midst of a "costly" divorce, which may bankrupt him and he could be forced to sell their £350,000 home.

Mr Viner refused to speak about his relationship with Jill but said they hope the new restaurant, on Lemon Quay in Truro, Cornwall, will be open by Christmas. The top floor of the boat will be Michelin- starred Mr Viner's restaurant with a traditional Victorian tea room run by Jill underneath.

He said: "When you walk along the quay it will be like you are in a steamship yard, with a ticket office, luggage stalls, flags and the original colours of black and gold."                                                                                                                                           

Jill added: "I've always liked the Victorian era because everything was made well, not plastic, and very English."   

Chef in 'Titanic' pose row                                       August 22, 2008

 

CELEBRITY chef Kevin Viner has been dubbed a 'Titanic poser' by a jilted husband – after posing for these pictures with his new lover.

Mr Viner, 50, twice voted Britain's top chef, adopted the famous stance to advertise his new restaurant project with Jill Richards, 47.

The couple met after Jill began working in his restaurant 'Viner's' and she later walked out on Gulf War veteran husband Roger Starling, 59.

They now plan to open their own 100-seater restaurant which will be located on a derelict paddle steamer they are currently renovating.

Kevin and Jill agreed to pose for photos ahead of the £300,000 renovation project – adopting the famous stance of Leonardo Di caprio and Kate Winslet.