Great British Fake Off--I’m on a roll!

LAST month I decided to buy a breadmaker; It wasn’t an easy decision. But I had to concede when I struggled to knead I needed to aim for precision.

I was keen to progress and avoid all the mess Of immersing my fingers in dough, With the stretching and pulling, then feeling all in Which many who’ve tried it will know.

Basic loaves I’ve now made with my bread-making aid And I modestly have to admit, I think I’ve achieved what I hoped to receive: Some approval my baking’s legit.

In my kitchen at home a rich yeasty aroma Greets all who are keen to find out

What’s gone into making my much-improved baking, A slice to entice without doubt.

Will a multi-grain, granary, wholemeal or white Be the choice and a must with a crust? Will it please and delight those indulging a bite Proving these recipes you can trust?

Inviting two neighbours to savour my labours Their verdict I keenly awaited; Raising their thumbs as their plates gathered crumbs, I was more than a little elated.

I’m sure there are those who’ll look down with a frown At my ‘roll-plays’ and dough ways which now Are not managed by hand, but uniquely my brand, A short-cut I hope they’ll allow.

Neil Vermaut, Croydon.