A Portuguese marketing graduate has become the sixth contestant to leave The Great British Bake Off after her pastry week efforts failed to win over the judges.
Clara, 24, left the Channel 4 programme in Tuesday night’s episode, while 25-year-old hairdresser Tom was named star baker for the third time.
Three Challenges Set by the Judges
Contestants were put to the test in three challenges set by judges Paul Hollywood and Nigella Lawson.
The bakers were first asked to create handheld savoury pies, before a technical round had them whipping up choux pastry for a dramatic Polish dessert.
They were given one last chance to impress the judges in the showstopper round with an eye-catching decorative pie.
Clara's Reaction to Leaving
On hearing the news she had to leave, Clara said: “I had a blast.
“This experience – it’s not only that you are learning about baking, but you are learning a lot about you.
“I never thought I could do this with my disorder, and I am really proud that I did that and hopefully I can be an inspiration for other people.”
Clara, who was named star baker in the third week of the competition, said she had expected to leave the tent because she “really struggled” during pastry week.
Despite leaving the show, she said she was proud of herself and encouraged anyone who loves baking to “absolutely go for it” and apply for the next series.
Reflections on the Experience
She said: “I actually learned a big lesson: having a bad bake does not mean I am a bad baker, it means there’s room for improvement, which is amazing because it motivates me to get the technique even better.
Speaking of her fellow bakers, Clara said everyone was “so supportive” from the very beginning and they remained close.
She added: “I think we were all just truly blessed with this group as we got on really well.
“Everyone is so different and brings so much to the table so that was beautiful to see.”
The Great British Bake Off continues next Tuesday at 8pm on Channel 4.
