Assembly Rooms catering officer shines as finalist in prestigious Cake International competition

18 November 2025
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photo of a chef in black jacket standing by a table and brick wall in the claymore lounge
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  • Catering officer at Tamworth Assembly Rooms, finalist in the renowned Cake International competition
  • Additional cake off competition sees teams battle it out in a timed challenge
  • Personal cake designs symbolising strength and resilience

Tamworth Borough Council is delighted to celebrate the highly skilled and passionate Steph Parker, catering officer at Tamworth Assembly Rooms, being a finalist in the prestigious Cake International competition.

Cake International is renowned as one of the world’s foremost cake and sugar craft events, drawing talent from across the globe. With incredible features including exhibitions, live competitions, and immersive cake-themed art, the event celebrates the craftsmanship and creativity of cake artists worldwide. 

Steph, a Tamworth local, known for her dedication and inventive spirit, has been an active participant in Cake International for over a decade. Her passion for cake artistry and commitment to pushing the boundaries of the craft has earned her admiration both nationally and internationally.

Steph joined the Assembly Rooms catering team earlier this year and is transforming the Claymore Lounge with exciting new menus, home cooked roast dinners and tempting afternoon teas, throughout the week.

This year Steph created a deeply personal cake design this year for the Cake International competition, honouring a close friend’s journey and strength to deal with life after abuse. Inspired by the myth of Medusa, the cake symbolised strength and resilience, highlighting the power of overcoming adversity and was featured on the BBC news.

An additional feature of Cake International is taking part in a ‘cake off’, comprised of four teams of three in a 45-minute heat. The teams battle it out to reach the semi-finals, where Steph’s team, which included talented cake artists Gavin Puttick and Sarah Carr, created an impressive two-tier cake featuring a zombie holding the cake. The team’s creativity and teamwork earned them a place in the finals, where they faced off against other expert competitors to create a three-tier cake.

Though Steph and her team didn't take home the top prize, their determination, originality, and teamwork shone through with their stunning display of creativity. 

Councillor Lewis Smith, portfolio holder for people services, engagement, leisure and heritage for Tamworth Borough Council said: “We’re so proud to celebrate Steph’s achievements, her work is a testament to the creativity and talent. Steph and her catering team at the Assembly Rooms, offer a high-quality Claymore Lounge breakfast and lunch menu, and additional event catering.

“Steph combines her passion for cake artistry with her role in food and beverage management. With more than 15 years of experience in catering, Steph is known for her innovative ideas and her commitment to producing excellent food.”

Find out more about the Assembly Rooms Claymore Lounge opening times, new menus, including breakfast, Tuesday roast dinners, afternoon tea and events here: www.tamworthassemblyrooms.co.uk/eat-drink