Great British Bake Off producers deny fix claims after Manon named Star Baker

The contestant appeared on a BBC cooking competition back in 2015

The Great British Bake Off is already at the centre of a huge controversy after just one episode.

Last night (28 August) saw the popular baking competition return with contestant Manon Legreve reigning supreme as Star Baker. However, viewers were quick to point out that GBBO is not Legreve's first experience with televised baking competitions leading some to accuse the show of being fixed.

Manon appeared as a contestant on BBC series The Box which was hosted by James Martin in 2015.

Producers have since denied fix allegations, insisting that Manon’s TV history has no reflection on her role in the baking series.

“We are fully aware that Manon appeared in one episode of The Box and this does not affect her eligibility to take part in The Great British Bake Off,” a spokesperson told The Sun.

The Box saw contestants rustle up dishes using a box full of limited ingredients. It ran for just 25 episodes.

Manon was crowned Star Baker after impressing judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith the most on biscuit week. Next week will see the contestants tackle the art of baking cakes.

The Great British Bake Off continues every Tuesday on Channel 4 at 8pm.