AS viewers prepare for the winner of the Great British Bake Off to be revealed, the rising stars of the baking world from a Corbridge school have been taking part in their very own challenge.

Children from Corbridge First School completed a Junior Bake Off masterclass at Matfen Hall, where their baking skills were put to the test.

The 20 pupils from year 3 were put through their paces by the hotel’s head chef, award-winning Paul Blakey, who taught them how to make cakes and the science behind proving, rising and baking.

And seven-year-old Cate Wootton’s pink-iced zombie and vampire cake proved a particular favourite with judge Bernard Bloodworth, managing director at the four-star hotel.

He stepped into the shoes of Great British Bake Off’s Paul Hollywood to judge the hotel’s own version of the Junior Bake Off competition, and Cate was presented with an ice cream maker for her impressive cake decoration.

Paul said: “Baking and decorating are such great skills for children to learn.

“They rolled and cut out chocolate chip scones, a new addition to the children’s afternoon tea menu. They then learned how to make cupcakes, mixing all the ingredients ready to be baked.

“They then decorated their cupcakes with a Hallowe’en theme, which was really popular, as they used artificial blood icing and bright green butter cream slime”.

The Junior Bake Off competition was part of a rolling campaign by Matfen Hall Hotel to teach children about food, where it comes from and how to cook it.

Along with taking part in the cake competition, the youngsters helped Paul and his team of chefs come up with ideas for the latest addition to their children’s menu.

Paul added: “I was really impressed by the enthusiasm of the children.

“I was delighted to work with them on developing their baking skills.

“We’re in the process of creating an afternoon tea designed specifically for children, so it makes sense to ask these youngsters what they would like it to feature.

“We strongly believe that the earlier children learn about food and cooking, the better, and it’s been great watching them get to grips with baking.”