BELOVED cookery writer and television personality, Mary Berry surprised stallholders and members of the public earlier today as she visited Cork's most famous food market, the English Market.

The former Great British Bake Off judge was doing some filming in the city when she stopped by Ireland's oldest food market.

Renowned fishmonger, Pat O'Connell of K O'Connell Fish Merchants sang Mary's praises, telling The Echo:

"She's a fabulous woman and very driven.

"She was a pleasure to chat with."

Incidentally, Mary was once a fishmonger in her youth, and the two had lots to talk about:

"We had plenty in common.

"We currently have a 250kg tuna at the stall so, as you can imagine, that caught Mary's attention!"

Now in operation for 57 years, K O'Connell's have had many a famous face visit them over the years, most notably HM Queen Elizabeth II and HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh during their landmark visit to the City on Friday, May 20, 2011. 

Hit television show, The Young Offenders have also filmed in the English Market alongside Pat and his team.

"They all come our way, much to my surprise," Pat joked.

Summing up the immense reaction to Mary's visit, Pat said:

"She's loved by all and it's not difficult to see why".