Jon Jenkins

From Newport, South Wales, Jon Jenkins won the hearts of thousands of viewers during the GBBO series earlier this year.  Not only did he become known for being a proud Welshman, baking a variety of Welsh bakes most weeks, he also demonstrated his love of loud Hawaiian shirts, by wearing a different shirt each week, including a Christmas themed Hawaiian shirt, starring Santa in a grass skirt.

Jon also gained immense popularity for bringing fun to the tent by wearing a tutu to present his ‘ballet’ cake to the judges and for becoming a ‘super hero’ when he stopped to help fellow contestant Ruby when she was struggling. The public and judges were also impressed with his scientific knowledge of baking – it was the first time spherification was heard in the tent and who can forget his tiny glittery lemon balls.

Since being in the Bake Off tent, Jon has had a hugely positive response from the public and social media, which has given him opportunities such as working for the BBC as part of Children in Need and on BBC Radio Wales as part of the Foodie Friday programme.

In addition, tickets sold out within an hour of a demonstration night he was hosting, resulting in a second night being booked and he is booked in for several baking school weekends next year across the country. Jon has been involved in promotions of baking products and hosting several open days, including Redrow Homes.