Minister congratulates Holywood Bake Off finalist

The Economy Minister has congratulated Holywood baker Andrew Smyth after the local man reached the finals of the Great British Bake Off.

The 25-year-old contestant, who is the son of former CBI Chair Nigel Smyth, is now one of three bakers competing for the Bake Off title.

The engineering graduate has become renowned for his ingenuity around the oven, and intricate designs.

Congratulating Andrew, Minister Hamilton said: “Andrew truly deserves his place in the final after weeks coming through weeks of tough baking challenges. He has created many outstanding bakes and has brought his skills as an engineer to the kitchen to give him that competitive edge.

“I have no doubt the whole of Northern Ireland will be cheering him on in next week’s final. As we celebrate the Year of Food and Drink, it is tremendous to see amateur bakers like Andrew do so well in a much loved and popular TV programme as the Great British Bake Off this year.”

The latest episode of the BBC bakery contest saw the exit of popular contestant Selasi, who gained a cult following for his coolness in the kitchen.