ONE OF the world's leading wine experts has been inundated with messages of love and support after being given only months to live.

Former Hampshire hotelier Gerard Basset, 60, was diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus last year and has now been told his illness is terminal.

Friends, colleagues and fellow wine lovers have taken to social media to express their sadness at the news.

The severity of Gerard's illness was revealed by Tom Stevenson, who tweeted: "My dear friend, the brilliant, talented, humble and inspirational Gerard Basset OBE, has started a new treatment in France with the prognosis that his cancer is terminal.

"My heart goes out him, his wife Nina and their son Romane."

Nina and Gerard Basset, owners of the Hotel TerraVina.Nina and Gerard Basset, owners of the Hotel TerraVina.

Ruth Yates tweeted: "There are no words to describe how I feel after reading this. I have loved being in your company Gerard. You are such an inspiration to so many in the trade."

Doug Rumsam added: "You wouldn't remember me but you influenced my career and inspired me. You were generous with time and thoughtful with advice. A true gentleman."

Gerard embarked on a career as a wine professional after moving from France to the UK in the 1980s.

He won a clutch of awards and in 2010 triumphed at the World Sommelier Championships in Chile. As well as his OBE he has been presented with the second highest accolade awarded by France, the Order of Agricultural Merit, for promoting French wine.

Gerard and Nina used to run the Hotel Terravina in Woodlands Road, Netley Marsh.

After Gerard discovered he was suffering from cancer they turned the business into a boutique B&B called Spot in the Woods to give Nina more time to look after him.

The couple say they have been "bowled over" by all the messages of support they have received.

Gerard Basset receiving his OBE from the Princess Royal.Gerard Basset receiving his OBE from the Princess Royal.

Nina told the Daily Echo: "Friends and colleagues have been amazing and are constantly in contact, simply to say 'hello' and let Gerard know they're rooting for him.

"Special mention must be made of our marvellous team at Spot in the Woods, without whom we could not manage.

"Gerard is the most amazing of all. He's inspirational in his positivity, his determination and his resolve to fight this latest stage with all his might.

"Our son Romane is being an enormous support to his papa."

Writing on social media Gerard added: "I would like to thank all of you who have posted incredibly kind messages. I am extremely touched."