WIRRAL-BORN Masterchef winner Claire Lara took her place to judge a special charity bake-off last week.

The 31-year-old joined forces with television presenter Cherry Healey to do her bit for North West Cancer Research Fund’s 2012 Cake Bake.

The event, which was held at LEAF tea shop in Bold Street, Liverpool, was part of the charity O-Very campaign launched to raise awareness about ovarian cancer.

Claire was the first woman to win BBC2’s Masterchef: The Professionals and cooked for the Queen during her visit to New Brighton last year.

She said: "It's overwhelming how many people turned up to support the O-Very campaign.

"We had 65 entries during the course of the day and everyone had made so much effort to present their cakes beautifully.

"We have been astounded by the level of technical ability and creativity – especially as the competition was between non-professional home bakers.

"Perhaps Merseyside has the best bakers in the North!"

The competition saw entrants bake in five different categories – traditional Victoria sponge, cupcakes, tray bake, freestyle and scone.

Natalie Windsor was crowned the winner and the 'O-Very Best Baker' at the end of the day for her raspberry cupcakes.

The top prize included a limited edition KMix Firecracker Stand Mixer courtesy of Kenwood and a baking masterclass with Claire.

Cherry Healey added: "While the Cake Bake is a fun event which everyone can attend to both enter and eat some delicious cakes, there is also a serious message behind what we're doing.

"Nearly 7,000 women were diagnosed with ovarian cancer last year and it's vital that they spot the warning signs as an early diagnosis can save lives.

"We will be telling women exactly what to look out for and emphasising the importance of seeing a GP if you have any of the symptoms."

For more information visit www.nwcrf.co.uk.

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