On your marks – get set – bake!
Like many people across the UK, staff from housebuilder Linden Homes Midlands have staged their very own lock down version of the Great British Bake Off – complete with signature bake, technical challenge and of course, the showstopper!
Budding bakers from across the East Midlands region (which includes Linden Homes and Bovis Homes staff as part of Vistry Group) each donated an entrance fee in support of NHS and COVID 19 charities.
Entrants paid £10 – with the total being matched by the company; and £320 will now be donated to good causes.
As well as raising money, the competition was a fun way to engage staff (some of whom have been furloughed).
Sales director Nicky Chapman came up with the idea, with the aim not only to support good causes but to have fun and keep communication among staff open during lock down.
She said: “As we are all working remotely, keeping in touch with colleagues is paramount, not only on a day to day professional basis but on a more informal and fun level.
“Staff around the region are no strangers to taking part in Linden Homes bake off challenges, so this was the perfect idea to get people involved.”
The challenge took place over two weeks, and while there were no Paul Hollywood or Pru Leith style taste tests, the bakers were asked to submit photos or videos of their creations for judging.
Members of the sales team were asked to judge the terrific tarts, super sponges and perfect pastries remotely – with the winner of the prestigious title of Star Baker and the worthy runners up receiving a host of goodies and mention in the staff newsletter!
And the winners are .. Sales executive Suzie Hargreaves (pictured) takes the title of Vistry East Midlands Bake Off Winner for her amazing Jaffa Cakes. Suzie clinched Star Baker in the signature bake challenge with her almost too good to be true Jaffa Cakes– oozing with orange filling and a great presentation.
Runners up are sales executive Amanda Clarke for her VE Day themed swiss roll – filled with delicious cream and jam and earning her a Star Baker award in the technical category. Technical co-ordinator Mikaela Chesher scooped the Star Baker spot for her show stopper, a colourful and perfectly executed rainbow sponge cake.
-ENDS-
For further press information please contact Cetti Long at Media Matters on 01733 371363 or email cetti@mediamatters-pr.co.uk
