THERE may have been smoke and flames near Hermitage Academy last week for the fifth annual Helensburgh Rotary Club Young Baker of the Year competition, but thankfully there were no burnt cakes.

While the contest was in progress a car in the Waitrose car park opposite the school caught fire and as the blaze was dealt with the nine contestants got back to baking.

The event is open to first and second year pupils, and in two hours they had to produce two different items, from a cake or sponge, scones, biscuits, or individual cakes.

Judges chef Kenny Harkin and pastry chef Heather Rawcliffe from Riverhill Glasgow selected Beatrice Puxley as the winner. She was the first to receive a new trophy presented for the event, as well as a gold medal.

Runner-up was Eden Sanderson, who received a silver medal, with Arran Boxall in the bronze medal position. All contestants received a participation certificate.

The competition was organised by Academy principal guidance teacher Isabel Cullen and Linda Harvey of Helensburgh Rotary Club, and rotary president Mike Jane presented the prizes, praising the high standard of entries.

The judges commented on the high standard of the entries, and they were thanked for their encouraging comments.

Isabel Cullen said: “The Bake-Off allows pupils the opportunity to showcase their talents and gain experience by taking part in something they obviously enjoy.”