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Master Chocolatier Mark Tilling, who led his team to victory in BBC2’s Bake Off: Crème de la Crème will be on board Saga Sapphires ‘Spanish Adventure’ cruise, to demonstrate the tricks of his trade and share his wealth of patisserie knowledge.

The 14-night ‘all things sweet’ cruise, departing October 2017, will be Mark’s second sailing on a Saga cruise ship. Whilst on board Mark will host patisserie demonstrations alongside chocolate themed workshops and dinners.

Mark, 39, said: “I went on Saga Pearl II in December 2014; it was my first cruise experience and I absolutely loved it! There was such a friendly atmosphere on board and everyone was so kind, the passengers and the crew were all brilliant.

“The fine dining was amazing; the chefs do such a great job and offer such fantastic choice, so this time I am going to take my wife Vicky along as I know she will love it.

“I will be running chocolate demos and classes, creating a bespoke chocolate afternoon tea, taking guests on a foodie tour of Barcelona and devising a chocolate-based dinner menu which features chocolate in every course.”

Mark, who was the UK Chocolate Master between 2006 and 2010 added: “On the last cruise, we made chocolate Christmas treats including designer-style handbags and truffles. One lady who came to the classes just seemed to eat the chocolate while others made some real works of art. It was great fun.

“Everyone was talking about the six-course themed dinner – that was a real highlight. It started with very boozy Chocolate Martinis which got the evening well under way!

“Seared scallops with chocolate raised some eyebrows but the taste was really subtle and the main course of duck with the richest chocolate sauce was washed down with red wine chosen by the maître d'.

“Just when everyone thought they would not be able to eat any more, the white chocolate and raspberry cheesecake was too irresistible and plates were virtually licked clean.

Mark added: “Before each course I explained to guests how the dishes were created but all credit to the executive chef and his team for serving such a memorable meal. I can’t wait to do another one.”

The all-inclusive cruise includes selected house-brand alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and a choice of table wines at lunch and dinner, plus sweet-toothed guests can also join Mark on a tour of Barcelona visiting two specially selected patisseries. He said: “The city is recognised as one of the most innovative for its patisserie. There are shops and markets crammed with amazing cakes, chocolate, nuts and other ingredients so that will be a treat for guests – and me!”

Ends

For details visit saga.co.uk/cruises or call 0800 50 50 30

Spanish Adventure: 14 nights from £3,294 departing Southampton on October 28, 2017 with calls to Huelva, Palma, Majorca, Barcelona, Valencia, Cartagena, Motril and La Corona, Spain; Gibraltar and Lisbon, Portugal. Price includes UK travel package to and from Southampton, all meals and entertainment, selected house-brand alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and a choice of table wines at lunch and dinner, chocolate classes, themed chocolate dinner, afternoon tea, 24-hour room service, welcome cocktail party, unlimited tea and coffee in selected venues, free Wi-Fi internet, all on-board gratuities, porterage, free shuttle bus to nearest town centre (whenever possible and when the ship is berthed more than 500 yards away), optional travel insurance and additional cancellation rights, or a discount if passenger has own insurance.

Price based on two people sharing the lowest available Inside cabin and includes any relevant booking discount. Fare was correct at the time of sending and is subject to availability and change. Further terms and conditions apply. Please call for details.'

Editors: Mark Tilling has worked as a pastry chef at top hotels including The Lanesborough, in London, and

Le Pave d’Auge in France, which boasts a Michelin star. He is now a resident tutor at Squires Kitchen Cookery School in Farnham and teaches chocolate, patisserie and bakery at all levels.

Saga is a leading provider of products and services primarily tailored for customers over the age of 50 in the UK. The Saga brand has been carefully developed over the past 60 years to become one of the most recognised and trusted brands among UK consumers aged over 50. Saga is synonymous in the UK with the over 50s market and is recognised for its high quality products and services. These include cruises and holidays, home and motor insurance, savings and share dealing and the UK’s award winning Saga Magazine.