Great British Bake Off star dies aged 61 as Paul Hollywood leads tributes

Great British Bake Off ‘s Dawn Hollyoak has sadly passed away at the age of 61.

Dawn, who used to work as an IT manager and was known for being the sixth baker to bow out of the 2022 series of the much-loved show, died at the age of 61. Her family broke the news with a touchingly sincere message on her Instagram : “It’s with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our star baker Dawn.

“Not only a wonderfully talented baker but first and foremost an amazing mother, grandmother, wife and friend. Dawn passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. We will miss her forever, but promise to continue her baking legacy!”

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The family has not revealed the cause behind Dawn’s premature death.

Paul Hollywood, one of the main judges on the show, was swift to convey his sympathy on the Instagram post, saying: “I’m so sorry to hear that, send my love to the family a lovely lady x.”

Carole Edwards, a fellow contestant who had left the show just one week prior to Dawn, shared her feelings of grief, stating: “I will miss my friend terribly, a beautiful and talented lady inside and out, fly high my friend, life just won’t be the same without you. Sending all my love to the family. Xx.”.

Meanwhile, George Aristidou, who competed in the previous series in 2021, said: “We never did get to make them koupes Dawn… Absolutely gutted to hear this very sad news. RIP and my condolences to all your family and friends x.”

Giuseppe Dell’Anno, the champion of 2021’s Bake Off, expressed his sorrow, stating: “This is devastating news… I only met Dawn once, but I was blown away by her joyous personality and her infectious smile. She will be sorely missed, but will live in the heart of those who loved her forever! “.

Syabira Yusoff emerged as the victor of the Great British Bake Off series 13, which also saw Abdul Rehman Sharif and Sandro Farmhouse as finalists.