Join us for a fun and friendly baking competition on Sunday 24th May 2026 at this year’s Romford Food Festival. Open to all attendees, the challenge is simple: bake your best Victoria Sponge cake and bring it along to be judged on appearance, taste, and creativity.
We’re also delighted to welcome two very special guest judges from Channel 4’s hit show The Great British Bake Off — Essex bakers Pui Man from Series 16 and Andy from Series 15, who will be bringing their baking talents and television charm to Romford town centre.
Pui Man, a bridal designer from Essex, became known on the show for her beautifully detailed bakes and creative flair, while fellow Essex baker Andy won over audiences with his family-inspired baking and passion for homemade classics.
The competition is open to three age groups:
- Juniors (11 and under)
- Teens (12–18)
- Adults (19+)
Each person may submit one entry, and by taking part you agree to follow the rules and accept the judges’ decisions as final.
Competition Requirements
Your cake must be a recognisable Victoria Sponge, made with two layers of sponge and a filling such as jam and cream or buttercream, finished simply — traditionally with a dusting of icing sugar. While creativity is encouraged, the cake should still clearly resemble the classic style.
All entries must be home-baked, and you’ll need to provide a written list of ingredients, clearly highlighting any allergens such as gluten, eggs, dairy, nuts, soya, or sesame.
Cakes should be presented safely in a clean container, as any entry considered unsafe or unsuitable for tasting may be refused.
Presentation matters, so cakes should be displayed on a sturdy board or plate and labelled with your name, age category, and allergen information. Decorations should be secure and, where possible, edible.
Delivery & Judging
Cakes must be delivered to the Cake Competition Table in the large white marquee near Tollgate House in Romford Market Place between 11:00am and 1:00pm on Sunday 24th May 2026.
Judging will take place from 1:00pm to 2:00pm, with winners announced at 2:00pm.
The top three in each category will be recognised, and additional awards such as “Best in Show” may also be presented.
Additional Information
The organisers reserve the right to move entries between categories if needed, disqualify cakes that do not meet the requirements, and use photos of entries for promotional purposes unless you request otherwise at drop-off.
For any questions or accessibility requirements, please contact the Romford Food Festival team at kamila@romfordbid.co.uk.
Bring your best bake and enjoy being part of a brilliant community event — good luck!