Great British Bake Off contestant Dawn Hollyoak dies aged 61

Former contestants of the popular show Great British Bake Off have expressed their admiration for the "delightful" and "skilled" Dawn Hollyoak following her passing at 61 years old.

The baker took part in a competition on a popular TV show in 2022. They were the sixth person to be eliminated from the competition when the group was asked to create treats inspired by Halloween.

The announcement was made on her Instagram page, with a message that said: "We are sad to inform you that our beloved baker Dawn has passed away. She was not only a talented baker, but also a fantastic mother, grandmother, wife, and friend."

The sunrise said goodbye peacefully with her family by her side. We will always remember her, but we vow to carry on her tradition of baking!

Beside the news, there was a picture of Hollyoak looking happy in a kitchen, holding a mug of tea.

Paul Hollywood, one of the judges on the show, also expressed his sympathy by saying, "I'm saddened to hear about this news. Please pass on my best wishes to the family. She was a wonderful lady x."

Carole Edwards, who was on the same season as Hollyoaks, expressed her sadness at the loss of her friend. She described her friend as a lovely and talented person, and said that life will not be the same without her. She sent her condolences to the family.

Fellow beginner bakers from the Bake Off season also honored Dawn, like Maxy Maligisa who shared, "Dawn will be greatly missed. The memories we shared are ones I will always treasure xx", and Janusz Domagala who expressed, "Sending all my love to you."

Giuseppe Dell'Anno, the winner of the contest in 2021, expressed his deep sadness upon hearing the news. He fondly remembered the joyful personality and infectious smile of the person he met. He said she will be greatly missed, but her memory will be cherished by those who loved her forever.

Hollyoak referred to herself as an "artist both in and out of the kitchen," as stated on the official Great British Bake Off website.

In her profile on the website, it says that Dawn enjoys the excitement of creating illusion cakes that seem impossible. She likes to choose wild and complex designs that let her show off her creative skills. Dawn is known for her precise handiwork and focus on small details, particularly when it comes to making intricate lace patterns on cookies.

Following her exit from the show, she expressed: "I'm not going to cry about it because it has truly been an incredible journey."