HOSPITAL staff were hoping they had a recipe for success as they entered winter-themed cakes in a baking competition.

The Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust bake-off inspired contest saw staff from various departments at Basingstoke hospital, Andover War Memorial Hospital and the Royal Hampshire County Hospital (RHCH), in Winchester, present their creations to a panel of judges.

Judges Elizabeth Padmore, the trust’s chairman, Joanne Sutcliffe, public governor, David French, chief financial officer, and Andrew Bennett, head chef at RHCH, marked the cakes on presentation, creativity and taste.

First prize went to Alan Kemp, a porter at RHCH, in Winchester, for his lemon “bomb” cake which had popping candy on top and was surrounded by mini cheesecakes and gingerbread stacks, with detonators made out of sugar strands.

Alan said: “I am surprised my cake won. The other cakes in the final were all brilliant. I haven’t always been a keen baker. I was in the Navy for 25 years in the logistics and catering department, and although I didn’t work in the kitchen, I picked up some tips.

“I got interested in cooking when I started making bread. I love the social side of cooking and sharing food, and I love my job at the hospital for the same reason. I get to meet all sorts of people.”

Mrs Padmore said judging the bake-off was a “real pleasure”.

She added: “The standard of cakes in the final was extraordinary. All of them looked and tasted wonderful, and the finalists showed remarkable talent. I also congratulate, and thank, the staff who entered cakes in the earlier heats.

“Our bake-off competition has brought together staff from many different roles and professions from across our three hospitals.”