The nation’s favourite culinary series, The Great British Bake Off, returned last night. It brought drama, laughter and, most importantly, an array of sweet treats to savour.

The first episode saw the 13 contestants, aptly named the baker’s dozen, show their skills with a traditional sandwich cake, Mary Berry’s Angel Cake, and a chocolate show-stopper.

As ever, Sue Perkins and Mel Giedroyc delved into baking history, explaining the origins of the courting cake: a cake produced by a fiancée for her beloved. 

The first contestant to win the coveted star baker crown was space satellite designer Rob, who impressed Mary and Paul with his precision, flavours and presentation.

Unfortunately, one contestant had to leave the Bake Off tent and, this week, it was web programmer Toby. Despite enthusiasm, managing to cut most of your fingers while baking and adding salt instead of sugar to your Angel Cake is going to get you sent home.

After the episode, Toby tweeted British Baker: “I’m so sorry I was rubbish guys @BritishBaker #gbbo”. As we all know, even the best of us make mistakes.

Next week the bakers try their floured hands at making bread under the watchful gaze of judges Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood.

At the time of writing, The Great British Bake Off website was “currently unavailable” due to the number of visitors. Those wishing to access the site were informed via an online message to “please check back tomorrow”.

The Great British Bake Off is screened on BBC2 every Tuesday, at 8pm.