CREATIVE Ruby Tandoh must produce stunning technical bakes and avoid soggy bottomed cakes to triumph on this year’s Great British Bake Off.

Ruby, 21, of Bournemouth Park Road, Southend, is battling it out with 11 other remaining contestants in the popular BBC Two programme for the title of “Best Amateur Baker”.

Ruby, who is studying history of art and philosophy at University College, London, told how she was inspired to bake by the “rubbish” the high street had on offer She said: “I became interested in baking after seeing the cakes in baker shop windows, and thinking they were a bit rubbish!

“I started baking bits and pieces as a teenager.

“But it wasn’t until I went to university that I really starting to learn more detailed techniques, even though there was only a tiny kitchen.

“I make such a mess when I bake, which I don’t think my mum was very pleased about when I lived at home, so I had the freedom to make as much mess as I pleased.”

Ruby said she only heard of the hit show halfway through the last series, and was totally sucked in.

She said: “It’s compulsive viewing.

“I couldn’t help but watch week after week.

“At the end of the last episode, a box came up saying how to apply for the next series.

“I decided to put an application in– not thinking I’d actually make it through.”

The series, now in its third year, is hosted by Sue Perkins and Mel Giedroyc, with the judges Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry. The first challenge, cakes, saw contestants bake sandwich, chocolate and angel food cakes as the technical challenge.

Ruby said: “I thought the first week would be quite easy.

“But you put so much pressure on yourself when you’re actually there.

“Baking in the tent is really stressful – it’s weird how your brain doesn’t work the same way as at home.

“Sometimes you just draw a blank.

“Thankfully, everyone is really nice – taking part in the show almost feels like being at a summer baking camp.”

Tomorrow, Ruby will be battling the other contestants in the “bread” round.

Ruby added: “I’m a lot happier baking bread rather than cakes, so I feel a bit more confident.

“I’m determined to show I can really bake, and prove I deserve my place in the competition.”

Follow Ruby’s progress on the Great British Bake Off on BBC Two tonight at 8pm.