Master bakers of Scotland your country ‘kneads’ you!
Fife provost Jim Leishman teamed up with Pop Idol winner Michelle McManus to launch this year’s search for the country’s upper crust.
The duo were given a masterclass by the 2013 Scottish Baker of the Year Andre Sarafilovic and TV judge Mich Turner at Stephens Bakery in Dunfermline.
After the bake-off, Mich said: “It’s wonderful to see such a competitive spirit among our enthusiastic participants today.”
Singer Michelle admitted she had not baked before, so this was all new to her.
“I love it and I won!” she said.
Pars legend Jim added: “It’s no surprise that I love a good pie at half-time and I was honoured to judge at the World Scotch Pie Championships last year. But now they’ve got me baking too.
“I have had a great day and have discovered a hidden talent I think!”
Most Scots love a tasty treat from their local baker, with thousands upon thousands of scones, loaves, savoury items, morning rolls, individual cakes and biscuits sold in Scotland every day.
So in 2012, Scottish Bakers, the trade association for bakers in Scotland, decided to search for the best baker in the land.
“We received some 12,500 votes from members of the public from all across Scotland in 2012, and over 15,000 in 2013 with some 200 bakers recognised,” said Scottish Bakers chief executive Alan Clarke.
“We are delighted to launch our third nationwide search for the Scottish Baker of the Year 2014, celebrating the achievements of the 15,000 people who work in our industry.”
Mich Turner will once again support the competition by compering the awards which will be presented in May.
“I am delighted to once again be involved in this event,” she said.
“As a professional cake designer, I have been really impressed by the quality and creativity Scottish bakers are demonstrating and I look forward to being surprised and delighted again this year.”