Mary Berry is set to take part in a Q&A session at the Alliance for Bakery Students and Trainees (ABST) annual conference.

The conference takes place on 7-9 June at Alton Towers Hotel in Staffordshire and Berry is scheduled to speak between 3pm and 4pm on the Saturday. She will be answering bakery-related questions from attendees, which need to be submitted in advance.

“The ABST is thrilled that Mary Berry has agreed to attend the conference to inspire the next generation of bakers. It is a privilege to have her as our special guest,” said Christopher Foxall, ABST communication secretary.

He added that this was only possible through the hard work of Andrew Taylor, technical manager at Zeelandia and the Worshipful Company of Bakers, in which Berry is a liveryman.

“Student members are really looking forward to attending the conference this year to see Mary Berry, and the ABST really appreciates the support from industry in terms of sponsorship. As always, if businesses are interested in supporting us further, then please get in touch with us.”

Attendees will also have the opportunity to see live demonstrations from exhibitors, get tips from experts on all aspects of baking and talk to employers about work placements and industry visits.

The famous ‘Lob the Cob’ competition will also take place, which sees challengers from different learning establishments use a peel to throw a cob as far as possible.