THE 'Great Darren Bake-Off' will be the centrepiece of the Darwen Gala next weekend.

The annual event, which is organised by a committee of volunteers in partnership with Darwen Town Council, will take place on August 19.

Building on the popularity of TV cooking shows, people will be able show of their baking skills.

The bake-off is divided into two categories, traditional scones and Victoria sponges and bakers need only complete an on application form to enter.

Vice-chair of the gala committee, Kristy Wadman, said: “It’s a big get-together for the whole community and a chance for the people of Darwen to celebrate.

“It’s not just for Darwen, we’ve got performers coming from across Lancashire and will be serving beers from the county.

“The bake off is our big event this year and we wanted to offer something that everyone could get involved with. It’s dead easy to apply and there’s even a cake drawing competition for kids.”

The deadline for bake-off entries is August 16 and the competition will be judged by bakers from Darwen Deli.

The winner from each category will receive vouchers for afternoon tea at Dolly’s Tea Room’s on Blackburn Road.

Another new feature at the event will be the mini arena, which will be full of activities for young attendees, include a Punch and Judy show provided by Darwen Library.

Last year’s gala failed to hit the expected heights as it shared the same time slot as the Darwen 1940s day, as well as poor weather.

But as the two events are separated by a week, organisers are hoping the community turns out in force.

Mrs Wadman said: “Weather pending it should be a really good turnout.

“We’ve got some really exciting events planned.

“We have to follow the same format each year, but we always try and change things up a little bit and have some variety.”

The day will begin with the road parade at 12.30pm from Darwen FC’s Anchor Ground to Borough Road and already more than 40 stalls have been booked in for the event, selling everything from food and cakes to clothes and makeup.

Borough road will be closed for the day and Anchor Road will be closed during the parade. The town car parks will be open as usual.

For more information visit darwengala.co.uk