Limerick student brings Dubai chocolate craze to UK baking competition

YOUNG baker Ayesha Jones represented Limerick Youth Service at the 'prestigious' Renshaw Cup this July.

She joined student bakers from across the UK and Ireland at the event’s historic return to Liverpool.

The Renshaw Cup, first held in 1952 and revived this year after a 21-year hiatus, was hosted at British Bakels’ Liverpool site, home of the Renshaw brand.

The three-day event from July 8-10 brought together 20 students for hands-on challenges, expert demonstrations, and mentoring from industry leaders.

Ayesha, a Newcastle West native, was nominated by her tutor Paul O’Brien, who competed in the 1993 Renshaw Cup.

“When I was nominated for the Renshaw Cup,” Paul said, “it was a huge honour for me... I still have great memories of fellow participants and, of course, the amazing demonstrations given by Renshaw.

“After Ayesha received her place this year, I explained what this award means going forward. You are now part of a very limited group of people, which is recognised throughout the bakery community.”

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Over the course of the event, Ayesha took part in a series of practical baking and decorating challenges, connected with like-minded students from across the UK, and received mentorship from past winners and professionals.

James Cawthorne, managing director at British Bakels, said: “We were thrilled to welcome Ayesha to the Renshaw Cup and see her represent Ireland with such skill and enthusiasm. Her work throughout the event was a testament to her talent and the guidance she’s received from Paul O’Brien and the team at Limerick Youth Service. The Cup is all about inspiring and empowering the next generation of bakers, and Ayesha truly embodied that spirit.”

Ayesha completed her FDQ Certificate in Professional Bakery qualification with Limerick Youth Service Community Training Centre.

For the competition, she had to develop a product suitable for selling in a café. She based her concepts on the recent Dubai chocolate craze, choosing a breakfast morning bread with a Dubai chocolate filling and a crumble.