A SHIRLEY paramedic claimed top awards for her festive-inspired bakes at Cake International
Liza Hall came first place and claimed won gold awards at the show, which sees cake artists from all over the world showcase their work at the NEC.
Her tiered Christmas Winter Wonderland cake was handed a gold accolade and came in first place in the category.
The 42-year-old was also handed gold awards for her classic Victoria sponge, which came second in its category and two batches cookies which came third in their category.
Liza said: “I absolutely loved creating my winter wonderland piece, it was a true passion project—so when I saw my score and realized I had been awarded a Gold, I was completely overcome with emotion.
“When they called my name and announced my piece had taken first place in category, I was genuinely stunned.
“There were so many truly beautiful, high-skill cakes in the category, so when they announced my name, I was honestly shaking a little—I really didn’t expect it.
“It’s such an honor, and I’m just so grateful to the judges for appreciating my design and the finished piece. That feeling, that recognition, makes every late night totally worth it.”
The mum of two began her baking journey as a hobby and would make family treats and would take some to work colleagues at West Midlands Ambulance Service.
Liza was inspired by online tutorials to fine tune her skills and eight years ago started up her own business, which she does alongside her job on the frontline.
She said: “The more I created, the more my desire to increase my skill level took over. That drive is what really pushed me to move beyond just baking for fun and to start focusing on the intricate art of cake design.
“My plan now is to set my sights on the next major international show, where I can really push my limits and compete in an even more advanced category.
“For me, the goal isn’t just another award; it’s about continuing to elevate my craft and challenging myself alongside the very best sugar artists in the world.”
