Great British Bake Off finalist Laura Adlington has turned from contestant to judge in a competition to support her local hospice.

The famous tent may have been packed away but Gravesend born-and-bred Laura has captured the hearts of viewers nationwide with her bubbly personality and delicious creations.

The 31-year-old is now working with ellenor hospice - which looks after adults and children with life-limiting conditions across North and West Kent and Bexley - to launch a baking challenge aimed at people aged 16 years and over with a passion for baking.

Laura, who lives in Halling, said: “Being part of Bake Off this year was incredible, and I feel honoured to now be able to support ellenor - a local charity close to my heart. I’m asking everyone to get their creative hats on and create a Rainbow-themed cake.

“Not only has the rainbow emerged as the symbol of 2020, but its hopefulness, inclusivity and ability to stretch from one place to another brilliantly sums up all that ellenor does in supporting those with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

“ellenor is amazing, keeping families positive and with its care extending across all sorts of different areas both practically and geographically.

"I can’t wait to see how people interpret the theme, and it will make a great change to be a judge not a contestant."

Vikki Harding, ellenor chief executive, said: “We are proud to partner with local celebrities who want to support the organisation and proud to organise fun, interactive campaigns which involve our local community.

"A big thank you to Laura for making this happen and supporting our work with those living with life-limiting conditions."

For full details of the competition click here www.ellenor.org/christmasappeal

The competition runs from today until December 16 and you can see a video message from Laura on ellenor's social media.

The finalist will win a signed copy of the Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice and a KitchenAid blender. The runner-up will receive a luxury food hamper.

Laura appeared in last Tuesday's final but lost out to winner Peter Sawkins.

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