Claudia Winkleman and Mary Berry unite for BBC cookery series

BBC One is to launch yet another cookery competition in the wake of losing The Great British Bake Off to Channel 4.

Claudia Winkleman will oversee the baking contest.

“I am never more at home than when I have my judging hat on. This series is going to encourage proper home cooking which I have always championed and I cannot wait to start. Claudia, for me, is the icing on the cake.” – Mary Berry

Former GBBO queen of cakes Mary Berry leads the charge to find Britain’s Best Cook in a series presented by Claudia Winkleman, where viewers will be pleased to see the well-paid beeb personality earning her crust.

At a time when British cooking has never been more varied, inspiring or of such high quality, this series will test the real-life expertise of truly great home cooks and will celebrate the food people make for their loved ones every single day. Berry is returning to her first love; with more than 75 cookery books to her name, her authority in the home kitchen is beyond question and she is the natural choice for the lead judge. A search for a second judge is underway the beeb note and whoever it is will eventually join Mary to help hunt out those whose talents, until now, have been hidden away.

Over eight episodes, in a format that appears to be similar to the original Masterchef format, the ten contestants will need to demonstrate skill under pressure and individual flair, as they’re asked to serve the most perfect version of dishes that define modern British home cooking as well as create their special take on well-loved classics. The judges will be looking for dishes that define a new benchmark of excellence, whether it’s roast beef with the perfect roast potatoes, an ingenious twist on chicken curry or an irresistible chocolate pudding.

Each challenge will reveal new tips and techniques as the competing cooks battle to prove that they have the skills and repertoire, technical ability, resourcefulness and creativity to get through to the final and be crowned Britain’s Best Cook.

“I am over the moon to be part of this show. Am slightly obsessed with Mary so will follow her around with my own moussaka for most of the filming. Apologies in advance.” – Claudia Winkleman

Mary Berry is putting her judging hat back on for BBC One.