There were tears as a Wiltshire farmer lost his place in the Great British Bake Off tent.

Mike Wilkins, a farm manager for CP Farming in Malmesbury, was one of 12 contestants vying to be crowned the champion of the latest edition of the popular Channel 4 show.

But he was eliminated from the competition in week four after failing to impress Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith with his coffee popcorn mousse cake showstopper.

There were tears as the 29-year-old left the tent for the final time.

Reacting to the news outside the tent, he said: “I felt it was my time to go, I’m just this little farmer who does a bit of baking in the kitchen and everyone else is just so incredible.

“The quality of what everyone else is doing is just breathtaking… I’m just going to miss everyone.”

READ MORE: Great British Bake Off Wiltshire man on this year's series

Despite the setback, Paul Hollywood described Mike as a “great guy and a fantastic baker” and added he was looking forward to visiting his farm shop.

In a letter posted on the show’s social media accounts, Mike reflected on his “magic journey”.

He added: “Thank you to every single person involved in putting together this magnificent show and thank you a million times over for including me in it.

“Every person I have met throughout this experience has been among the most glorious people I have ever had the good fortune to know.

“I have been made to feel welcomed and supported at every single second.

“Bake Off is so tremendously special and its joy and laughter and positivity has boosted me for years as a dedicated fan.

“Now, to be part of the family and part of Bake Off history is a privilege that I will cherish and treasure forever.

“This whole experience has been pure magic.”

Mike also thanked Paul and Prue for their “brilliant feedback” and Alison Hammond for her “love, laughter and hugs” during filming.

The fourth-generation farmer was shortlisted for Young Farmer of the Year at the 2024 National Arable and Grassland Awards and is also an advocate for the LGBTQ+ farmers community.

He said: “From showcasing my favourite queer books, to celebrating British farming and farm produce in every bake, I am so proud of everything I have achieved!

“I just hope that I haven't let anyone down and that everyone has enjoyed watching a fraction as much as I have enjoyed being here.”