A 21-year-old medical student has become the youngest winner of The Great British Sewing Bee after teaching herself the craft through YouTube tutorials. Serena Baker, from Glasgow, triumphed in the seventh series of the BBC competition, impressing judges with a show-stopping yellow evening gown.
Miss Baker, who studies at Edinburgh University, learned to sew at the age of 15 by watching online videos. She beat 11 other contestants, including textile artist Raphael, 34, and retail assistant Rebecca Grimbleby, 23, in the final aired last night.
Judge Patrick Grant praised her gown, saying: 'Serena, I love it. It looks simple but it isn't. I think the bodice is incredibly neatly constructed. I think the gathering on this skirt is exceptional, it's so even. She has delivered a gown with real impact.' Fellow judge Esme Young added: 'I definitely could see it on the red carpet. It looks great. Well done.'
Speaking after her win, Miss Baker said she hoped to inspire younger generations to take up sewing. 'It used to be associated with older ladies, so I hope I've inspired younger people to start sewing,' she said. 'I've had a lot of support from Scotland and I feel so excited to bring the trophy home to Scotland, I hope I've made the country proud.'
With four years of medical training still ahead, she vowed to continue sewing whenever possible. 'I will still be sewing the whole time whenever I can,' she said.
