Great British Bake Off finalist Dave Friday set to judge community's Showstopper creations as Rowans Hospice Charity launches virtual fundraiser

Rowans Hospice Charity has launched its latest virtual fundraising event, with 2020 finalist Dave Friday proudly supporting as a judge.

Rowans’ Great BIG Bake Off aims to lift the community’s spirits and raise much-needed funds, as the hospice begins the journey to recovery after facing devastating losses to income due to the pandemic.

Keen to get behind the fundraiser, Waterlooville resident Dave has challenged bakers to create their own Showstopper in the theme of ‘what are you most looking forward to after lockdown’.

Dave said: ‘Living locally to Rowans Hospice, I am acutely aware of the ongoing strain the pandemic has placed on the charity.

‘With all their physical fundraising events being cancelled in 2020, it feels so important to help where I can by adding some weight to this campaign.

‘As you know, I love to bake so I run regular charity bake alongs. Rowans’ Great BIG Bake Off is just a little bit different and I cannot wait to see local supporters rising to the occasion and creating their signature bakes for our post-lockdown themed Showstopper.’

Anyone wanting to take part in the charity’s virtual Bake Off is invited to submit a 30-second 360-degree video of their creation, including the Showstopper being cut, along with a list of their ingredients to the charity by April 13.

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Dave and the charity will create a shortlist of 10 finalists by April 16, after which time the community will be invited to vote for their favourite bake on the charity’s official poll, as well as make a donation to their favourite baker’s JustGiving page.

On April 30, the Rowans’ Great BIG Bake Off Final overall winner will be announced by Dave using the final number of votes cast on the poll.

Debbie Pick, fundraising lead at Rowans Hospice Charity, said: ‘It has almost become tradition during lockdown to bake banana cake - who will become our very own Star Baker with their Showstopper?

‘We’re delighted Dave Friday is supporting the event – he will have the tough decision of judging all entries, and while we are unable to taste all things sugar and spice, Dave will be looking for creativity, imagination and inspiration.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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