Success is sweet as Leeds duo secure place in Bake Off semi-finals

Stefan Rose, head pastry chef at Crafthouse and Angelica, and Stephen Trigg, co-founder of Leeds-based Lauden Chocolates, battled it out on the popular show on BBC Two on Tuesday night.

Stefan said on Twitter: “Just wanted to say thanks for all the support and kind words last night. We’re delighted to be through to the semi-finals!

“I’m really proud to be flying the flag for Leeds. Keep your fingers crossed for us when we’re back on your screens in May.”

Stephen Trigg, who set up Lauden Chocolates in 2008, said: “It was only once I’d submitted our application and it was accepted that I stopped to realise what I had done.

“I had just put myself up there with the best of the best in the pastry world, alongside truly respected industry professionals…and up until two years ago I still worked in IT!

“Suddenly the pressure was immense and my sense of responsibility for not letting the team down, and for showcasing Leeds talents to the max, really hit me.”

The team was joined by Nelson Barros Sa – executive pastry chef at Galvin restaurants.

They were tasked with creating fruit tarts, coconut dacquoises and cubed cakes, as well as a ‘showpiece’.

They will return to the BBC Two show next month.