Great British Bake Off 2018: start date, contestants, judges, trailer - everything we know so far

Prue, Paul, Sandi and Noel return to the Channel 4 series

Channel 4 has set the return of The Great British Bake Off, the broadcaster bringing back the same winning recipe that gradually impressed BBC watchers and newcomers alike.

So, what do we know about the upcoming ninth series? Despite being caked in secrecy, we now have a confirmed release date, a fun trailer and a full line-up of contestant. Here’s the lowdown of everything you need to know.

When does The Great British Bake Off 2018 start?

Channel 4 has confirmed that the first episode will debut on Tuesday 28 August, at 8pm.

Who are the judges?

As with last series, Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith will be judging the bakers’ bakes. Leith controversially replaced Mary Berry following the high-profile move to Channel 4 with the former judge deciding to continue at the BBC with Mary Berry’s Britain’s Best Home Cook.

Who are the presenters?

Sandi Toksvig and Noel Fielding will bring back their wholesome brand of cookery-based humour for the ninth run.

Who are the bakers?

A techno DJ, a blood courier and a mental health specialist - this year's line-up certainly make for a varied batch. Read more about each one below.

Can I watch the trailer?

Certainly! Similar to last year, Channel 4 has released a nightmarish trailer to warm everyone up for the upcoming series featuring many singing cakes.

How long will Bake Off go on for?

Fans have become accustomed to 10 weeks of Bake Off-ing, but Channel 4 has yet to announce exactly how long this year’s series will be. When we know, this piece will be updated.

Will Bake Off: An Extra Slice be back?

No word yet on whether Jo Brand’s spin-off show returns this year. Chances are, considering the ratings the main show pulls in, the supplement will be back.

What has happened to last year’s winner?

While Sophie Faldo may not have yet enjoyed the same national celebrity status as Nadiya Hussain, she has enjoyed a continued successful baking career working as a pastry chef at a Michelin starred restaurant. Former track cyclist champion and stuntwoman-in-training Faldo has also become an ambassador for Great Ormond Street Hospital.