Great British Bake Off star Dawn Hollyoak has died aged 61.
The former IT manager, who was the sixth baker to leave the tent in the 2022 series of the beloved baking show, died at the age of 61, her family confirmed.
In a heartfelt message on her Instagram, they shared: "It's with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our star baker Dawn. Not only a wonderfully talented baker but first and foremost an amazing mother, grandmother, wife and friend. Dawn passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. We will miss her forever, but promise to continue her baking legacy!"
The cause of Dawn's death has not been disclosed.
Paul Hollywood, one of the show's judges, was quick to offer his condolences, writing on the Instagram post: "I'm so sorry to hear that, send my love to the family a lovely lady x."
Fellow contestant Carole Edwards, who left the show just a week before Dawn, also expressed her sorrow, saying: "I will miss my friend terribly, a beautiful and talented lady inside and out, fly high my friend, life just won't be the same without you. Sending all my love to the family. Xx."
While George Aristidou, who competed in the show in 2021, wrote: "We never did get to make them koupes Dawn…Absolutely gutted to hear this very sad news. RIP and my condolences to all your family and friends x."
2021 Bake Off winner Giuseppe Dell'Anno commented: "This is devastating news… I only met Dawn once, but I was blown away by her joyous personality and her infectious smile. She will be sorely missed, but will live in the heart of those who loved her forever!"
Syabira Yusoff was crowned the winner of the Great British Bake Off series 13, which also featured finalists Abdul Rehman Sharif and Sandro Farmhouse.
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