Mark exits Bake Off Oriental express

Japanese week was more entertaining than others, if only because the bakers managed to stretch the borders of Japan to include China, necessitating leaps of faith as wide as the seas between the two countries. Adding India to the mix muddied the waters even further, although it gave credibility to the idea that we live in a global village, unchallenged here by culinary purism.

Symbols clashed everywhere, with Prue turning Japanese in crinkled Issey Miyake yet looking like a kooky Samurai enlivening the local bridge club. Paul defiantly resembled a model from the days when clothing came from catalogues.

It all lacked Japanese finesse and style. The word “buns” was shamelessly milked, with Dave added natural colour to his with turmeric, at least saving money on spray tan.

Lottie told Mark to “burger off ” with the venom of a viper meaning business. She’s the only one with spirit, a moody maitresse with a wit as dry as the crack of a whip on hardwood. She’s opinionated, sarcastic, recalcitrant and competitive – what’s not to like?

Lottie’s matcha crepe cake in the technical was great but lovely Peter deservedly won, with Prue declaring his effort “a model”. I remain unconvinced but if Kate Moss ever channelled a tomato sandwich enshrined in vibrant green Slime then this confection was indeed worthy of any catwalk. Paraphrasing Peter, it was game, set and matcha to the Scot.

Paul declared that he didn’t like matcha just before Dave announced it as the star ingredient in his Kawaii showstopper. Laura swore and cried. Noel said he liked to look but not eat. Hermine announced defeat with insouciant pragmatism and pathos – “I was going to do a Geisha – but not anymore.” Peter and Lottie’s ambitious creations excelled, Lottie’s especially.

Lottie won star baker and Mark went home.

Symbols clashed everywhere, with Prue turning Japanese in crinkled Issey Miyake yet looking like a kooky Samurai