THE PROOF is in the pudding for Wilmslow cake maker Elaine Hamey who has reached the final of the baking industry Oscars for the fifth time.

Elaine, who whips up her magical creations for Peter Herd of Wilmslow, has made the finals of the Celebration Cake maker of the year British Industry Award.

The 37-year-old beat off competition from hundreds of confectioners to make it to a final shortlist of three in the confectioner of the year category.

She has already scooped an all-expenses paid trip to London's Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane for the glamorous awards evening where she hopes to walk off with the top prize of £500.

"I am really pleased to have got this far. It's the fifth time I have got to the final and it is always exciting," she said.

Elaine entered the nation-wide search for Britain's best baker through the British Baker magazine.

After filling in a nomination form, she was asked to send in photographs of the cakes she has made for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and special events.

Judges were impressed by the attention to detail, creativity and sheer range of cakes Elaine has whipped up for her customers and immediately shortlisted her for the final three.

But the coveted first place is still up for grabs as the panel visit each of the finalists this week to see their cooking skills up close and test their enthusiasm for their profession.

She said: "I am a little nervous but also really pleased. Often you are just baking in your own little room and you don't speak to other people so it is good know that my standards are not slipping."

Although the results remain a closely guarded secret until the night, Elaine is planning to enjoy her trip to London and will have her husband Kevin and work colleagues for support.

"I have not got a dress yet but I've got two or three on stand-by just in case", she said.

Sylvia MacDonald, editor of British Baker magazine, organisers of the event said: "This is a tremendous honour for Elaine. She and her team should be rightfully proud of their achievement."