Paul Hollywood has come to the defence of Great British Bake Off finalist Laura after she was targeted by trolls on social media.
The 31-year-old digital manager from Kent faced criticism after narrowly avoiding being eliminated from the Channel 4 show on Tuesday, with fan favourite Hermine leaving instead.
Despite specialising in French patisserie, the 39-year-old accountant from London struggled across three increasingly difficult challenges as temperatures rose amid a summer heatwave.
Hollywood, who judges Bake Off alongside Prue Leith, shared a lengthy statement on Instagram.
He said: “I’ve heard of some sad people trolling Laura, it’s disgusting behaviour.
“Those of you who may not be aware how Bake Off works or new to the series may have missed what we have ALWAYS done on Bake Off judging.
“Each week stands on its own!! It never matters what any baker has done in previous weeks.
Here’s the amazing Hermine’s heartfelt and hilarious letter to all you Bake Off fans. #GBBO pic.twitter.com/n4jBYrnE60
— British Bake Off (@BritishBakeOff) November 17, 2020
“Even if you win 4/5 star bakers and then have a bad week you will be at risk of going sadly. It’s the rule that has been in place for 11 years!!
“Also I ONLY give out handshakes in signature not in Showstopper or technical, there was one exception 3 years ago… STOP trolling any of the bakers!!
“Remember Prue and I can actually smell and eat the bakes… Bring on the final X”
Laura replied to his post, saying: “Thank you Paul that really means a lot to me.”
A number of former contestants also posted their support, with 2018 winner Rahul Mandal commenting: “Thanks so much for clarifying this Paul. It means so much for all of us bakers. I hope people will understand and try to be kinder with bakers. Thanks again.”
Like in previous years, the 11th series of Bake Off was pre-recorded over summer, although production was initially delayed due to Covid-19.
The bakers, presenters and others working on the programme formed a “bubble” in Down Hall Hotel near Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, throughout the duration of filming, after being tested for the virus and self-isolating.