Bread Source's Shannon Lake wins top young baker award

Shannon Lake began her career in patisserie after leaving hospitality to work for the award-winning Norfolk bakery Bread Source.

Although starting her professional career three years ago, her baking journey began long before.

Miss Lake said:" I used to bake as a child with my nan who used to make wedding cakes and I watched in awe as she made such beautiful sugar craft flowers.

Miss Lake after she collected the awards (Image: Shannon Lake) READ MORE: Cafe announced as newest addition to city's Royal Arcade

"I also helped my mum in our kitchen, and I know everyone's mum is the best cook but my mum was the best baker - she's famous in her friend group for her quiches."

The 27-year-old from Norwich reignited her passion over lockdown, honing her craft by baking almost every day and becoming the designated cake supplier for her friends' birthdays.

She added: "I thought this could be a great career so as soon as the lockdown was over I hunted on the internet for a baker job.

"Now I've been at Bread Source for three years and it has been hard work don't get me wrong, but it's been such an incredible experience. 

Miss Lake outside the Bread Source bakery in Marriot Close (Image: Shannon Lake) READ MORE: Pub group unveils plans to 'breathe new life' into neglected inn

"I can honestly say I've accomplished more in the last three years than in all my career before that."

In that time Miss Lake has completed her level two apprenticeship in baking, as well as taking trips to a Gien in France and Lucerne in Switzerland to further master her craft.

Her journey has now been recognised by winning the Worshipful Company of Bakers Young Baker of the Year award. 

"When my name flashed on the big screen at the awards I was flabbergasted to say the least and immensely grateful.

"I love what I do and I can't wait to see where baking takes me in the future," she said.