Bake Off finalist Candice on life after the show, THAT raw bread and how much she practised

Ahead of the final episode to be shown on the BBC, find out more about the baker – and how her life has changed post-Bake Off.

Why did you apply to be part of the show?

I love baking, it’s my thing, it’s my haven, my safe place – I just love it! But I never ever thought I would get on Bake Off. My boyfriend and my family are my main source of encouragement – when I felt unsure, they give me a good nudge!

Who taught you to bake?

My nan was the best. Her baking was amazing – I spent a lot of time growing up with her and my grandad and she was always baking and cooking. I stood next to her on the brown dining chair that I dragged through to the kitchen watching in complete adoration.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zHwEhf8u2w

How often do you bake?

When I’m at work I try to bake at least once a week but if it’s been a stressful week probably every night! And always on the weekend. During the school holidays, the kitchen – covered in flour and icing sugar – is where you’ll find me.

How big is your kitchen?

Not big enough for the whirlwind that is me…

Did you practise before appearing on the show?

Wow, I practised! I dread to think how many hours, eggs, grams of sugar, flour and tears I used up practising.

What was your biggest high and low on the programme?

Biggest high was that very first walk down to the tent in week one – I couldn’t believe I was actually there. Biggest low – undoubtedly my raw bread! Heartbreaking and mortifying. I was so embarrassed and still don’t know what happened.

How did you balance the show with your day job?

Head down and ploughed on! I think I was running on adrenaline and disbelief – definitely not sleep! I work in a secondary school in the special needs department and I teach PE – teenagers have no sympathy for tired teachers/secret bakers!

Has your life changed since the end of Bake Off?

Life hasn’t really changed. It was straight back to work – although I am now Miss Brown or “Lady from Bake Off”! I would love to be able to bake all the time – but who knows what will happen?

The Great British Bake Off final is on tonight, 8pm BBC1