showstopper challenge was to make a Baked Alaska, that unusual combination of sponge and a frozen ice cream centre, topped with browned meringues. Precision was of paramount importance, and the hot day hampered the ice cream's setting process.
The first embroilment of the series ensued when Diana removed Iain's ice cream from the freezer because he had apparently placed his creation in the wrong appliance. The resulting melted mess was deposited in the bin and he left the tent before the challenge was over, refusing to present any of the remaining carnage.
The judges criticised Iain's rashness in discarding the sponge and meringue, and Diana seemed to escape any comeuppance when she only needed to ask Iain to remove his ice cream to avoid the bedlam.
Richard was the resounding winner of star baker, but Mary and Paul had to deliberate over whether Norman would be sent packing because of his lack of originality and creativity or Iain for letting his emotions get the better of him. The decision was taken that he could not be allowed to return next week after not finishing and presenting the third challenge, and Norman lived to tell the tale once again.
With the intensity in the tent reaching new heights, week 5 and tart making is not to be missed.
