Hope celebrated its 20th anniversary with a Bake Off

There were three categories in the Great Hope Bake Off for the bakers to enter which were full cake, sponge or cupcakes, tray bake or biscuits.

One of the entries came from Guardian reporter, Shelley Marriott, who hoped to impress the judges with her Creme Egg chocolate brownies.

Shelley said: “I really enjoy baking and I love seeing something which started as a few ingredients turn into something delicious.

“I am an avid watcher of the Great British Bake Off and bake in my spare time when I can, much to the delight of my friends, family and work colleagues.

“My favourite thing to bake are brownies and cupcakes but I am trying to branch out and bake different things.

“With Easter right around the corner I wanted to bake something with an Easter theme which is why I opted for the Creme Egg Brownies and they have always had a great reaction when I’ve made them in the past.”

The entries were judged by Adam Diggles, John Eccles and Rob Pownall and judging was based on the aesthetic appearance and taste of the baked goods.

Among the entries was a lemon drizzle cake, red velvet cake, chocolate fudge cake, cupcakes and victoria sandwiches.

The first prize went to Mick Putland, which was collected on his behalf by his wife Christina, for his Victoria Sandwich.

Second prize went to Charley Robinson for her Red Velvet Cake and the third prize was awarded to Joanne Linley who also made a Victoria Sandwich.

The entries were sold to raise money for Hope Community Services at a coffee morning on Saturday, March 19, and £52 was raised.