David rustles up a surprise to take 2019 Bake Off title
UNDERDOG David Atherton has been crowed winner of The Great British Bake Off after an emotional final.
He saw off competition from four-time star baker Steph Blackwell and the steady talent of Alice Fevronia, who were left in tears during a stressful climax to the show.
David stunned Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith with his showstopper, and was the only contestant to present a serviceable souffle.
Steph was reduced to tears, saying “I just feel a bit stupid” after her own effort collapsed into liquid, and was given a hug by Hollywood after her showstopper was badly received.
Alice was left crying at the thought that her family might not arrive to see her finish the show.
David remained stress-free in the final, and wanted to enjoy the long process which has led to victory,
He said: “It feels so good. It’s been weeks and weeks of intensity and fatigue and then to finish it with this.
“I saved the best till last, and it’s the best feeling in the world.
“Honestly, it was never in my mind that I thought I could win this, I have had daydreams of winning Bake Off for about 10 years.
“I really enjoyed every episode in the tent and I never felt that I was flaky throughout the whole series, although I did feel very nervous at the final, which was unlike me.
“I felt the pressure in the tent but I just didn’t get stressed, I did feel nervous but I didn’t let it get to me. I wanted to enjoy myself rather than having any negative feelings.”
Contestants were asked to craft a chocolate cake to a professional standard in the signature.