Bake Off: Mel and Sue, we love you!

Sue Perkins and Mel Giedroyc (Love Productions/ Mark Bourdillon)

GREAT British Bake Off fans have been savouring the final BBC1 shows before its controversial move to Channel 4.

Last week’s ratings were the highest of the series which has already proved to be another blockbuster.

The £75m switch has left devotees distraught, with Paul Hollywood the only one going to Channel 4 after Mary Berry, Sue Perkins and Mel Giedroyc all opted out of the channel switch.

The loss of Mel and Sue in particular has been hailed as a hammer blow for the show. And current star Benjamina Ebuehi, 23, says the duo are a massive part of life in the tent.

“Mel and Sue are brilliant,” Londoner Benjamina told The Sunday Post.

Benjamina (Love Productions/ Tom Graham)

“If they see you getting in a panic or upset, they are always there to cheer you up.

“Being in the tent can be quite stressful, especially when it’s not going to plan. So it’s great having them there to lighten the mood.”

Wednesday’s episode was another emotion-packed affair with Andrew on the verge of tears as he feared he faced elimination. He sobbed with relief when he was saved – just – after Rav Bansal, who had squeaked through recently, finally saw his luck run out.

Rav Bansal (Love Productions/ Tom Graham)

With just six bakers remaining, teaching assistant Benjamina admits it’s a nerve-shredding experience.

“I’m aware of the increasing pressure each week,” says Benjamina.

“The further you get, the less room there is for mistakes and you know that one slip-up could potentially send you home. It gets a lot more intense.”

Benjamina rolling pastry and talking to Mel Giedroyc (Love Productions/ Tom Graham)

Benjamina was Star Baker in Batter Week but has seen her fortunes rise and fall. She says that although they’re all desperate to win, the bakers back each other to the hilt.

“We do all get along,” she says.

“We spend so much time together each week and form a great bond.

“Back at the hotel, we reflect on how the day has gone but also just have a laugh and cheer each other up.

“It’s great to have gotten this far and I’m really proud of what I’ve achieved.”

The Great British Bake Off, BBC 1, 8pm, Wednesday.

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