Jack Duggan from Galway is being celebrated this week after being named runner-up in Ireland’s Best Junior Baker with Gala Retail. His chocolate chip and chocolate muffins secured him place among the competition’s top bakers, earning him the runner-up title and a €500 prize.
Organised by convenience retailer Gala Retail in partnership with Virgin Media Television, Ireland’s Best Baker celebrates home baking talent from communities across the country. The competition culminated in a live bake-off final at Airfield Estate in Dundrum, with finalists showcasing their signature bakes before a judging panel led by baking expert Catherine Leyden and TV presenter Cassie Stokes.
The final was filmed for broadcast on Ireland AM, giving contestants the opportunity to showcase their baking talents and personal stories to a national audience. Reflecting on the experience, Jack comments:
“I couldn’t believe it when I found out I was a finalist in Ireland’s Best Baker. Baking is something I really enjoy, so getting the chance to showcase my chocolate chip and chocolate muffins at such a big competition was exciting. It was great to have my mum Lisa, my granny Mary, my sister Grace and my friend Jennifer there with me on the day. The whole experience was brilliant and it’s something I’ll remember.”
The overall Ireland’s Best Baker title was awarded to Vincent Kelly from Douglas, Co. Cork for his traditional brown bread, while Lucy Carroll from Moate, Co. Westmeath was named Junior Baker of the Year for her lemon drizzle cake.
Commenting on the competition, Gary Desmond, CEO of Gala Retail, said the response to this year’s competition has been fantastic and once again highlighted the baking talent that exists in communities across Ireland. The standard was exceptionally high, with finalists bringing creativity, personality and unique twists on classic recipes.
“Gala stores are at the heart of communities across Ireland, and Ireland’s Best Baker has become a great way to celebrate local talent. It’s been great to see bakers of all ages share family recipes, original ideas and their love of baking, while our partnership with Virgin Media Television has helped showcase that talent on a national stage.
“Congratulations to Jack, and all of this year’s finalists on their achievements. They should be very proud of what they’ve accomplished.”
This year’s Ireland’s Best Baker competition attracted hundreds of entries from across the country, with categories ranging from breads and traybakes to muffins, cupcakes and tarts. The competition featured a total prize fund of €4,500 and was supported by O’Brien Ingredients, Ireland’s leading bakery ingredients supplier.
For more information about the competition and to view highlights from the event, visit www.gala.ie/bestbaker
