Three Dubliners announced as finalists in the National Brown Bread Baking Competition

It seems there’s something in the Dublin mix this year as three local bakers have risen to the challenge and secured their places in the semi-finals of the National Brown Bread Baking Competition.

Pictured above are Paulin Browne (Phoenix Park), Helen Walker (Swords) and Faith Aghogho (Finglas), who will be among the eight talented contestants competing at the National Ploughing Championships semi-finals in Screggan, Tullamore, Co. Offaly, on September 16th and 17th.

The top four will go forward to the final on September 18th.

Speaking on the achievement, Helen Walker said today “It’s my first time entering the National Brown Bread Baking competition and I’m delighted to be representing the Dublin ICA. I’m also absolutely petrified, but bring it on!”.

The champion will take home €5,000 in cash and a NEFF Slide & Hide oven.

Three finalists on the 18th will win €500 Euronics gift cards, while all other finalists will receive a €250 Euronics gift card and a Neff hamper.

Pauline Browne said “One of my earliest memories is kneeling on a chair by the kitchen table, “helping” my grandmother make the brown bread, never once did she use a weighing scale.

“It was all by feel. So this is very special for me to be a finalist at the National Brown Bread Baking competition”.

Supported by Euronics in association with the National Ploughing Association and the Irish Country Women’s Association, the competition is set to be a feast for the senses with the Dublin bakers hoping to be crowned with the finest loaf.

Faith Ekonorue said “I am delighted to be selected as one of the semi-finalists of the National Brown Bread Baking Competition.

“My passion for baking comes from my mom who inspired me everyday. I could not have been here without her. I’m excited to make her proud”.