A bake-off which started as a gentle competition between teachers at a Clayhall school eventually raised more than �400 for a Woodford Green hospice.

Pupils at Glade Primary School in Atherton Road got to vote on which of their teachers had produced the best Christmas cake or gingerbread house on Tuesday, paying �1 for the privilege.

Cover teacher Louise Murphy won the first category with a giant Christmas tree cupcake while year two teacher Jo Parker was judged to have created the best gingerbread house.

The winning cakes were awarded to children who were chosen by a raffle.

Proceeds went to Haven House Children’s Hospice in High Road.

Deputy headteacher Dean Miller said: “It started as just a gentle competition between the staff and we thought it was a great opportunity to raise money for Haven House.

“We wanted to raise the hospice’s profile with the children.

“They had a wonderful time.”

The school will now hold the bake-off annually.

An inaugural cup and apron was awarded to Mrs Murphy, the overall winner.