A WIRRAL schoolgirl is giving baking great Mary Berry a run for her money as she uses her talent to spread joy while raising funds for charity at the same time.

Asha Cockroft, from Wallasey, has spent the last two years perfecting her baking skills, winning numerous awards for her cake decorating, and helping out at Patchwork Cutters - owned by her great aunt Marion Frost.

The 11-year-old Weatherhead High School pupil even helped to raise £1,000 for Claire House Children’s Hospice when she gave up her morning in aid of the Bebington-based charity and demonstrated how to decorate snowman cupcakes.

And while Asha – who wanted nothing but a cake mixer for Christmas – has always had a love for cooking, it’s her aunt’s inspiration that has led her to such success.

“Asha used to bake when she was younger with my mum – she’d bake different things like apple pies and Cornish pasties – quite traditional, old-fashioned foods,” explained proud mum Debbie.

“She has been coming in through the summer holidays and helping her great aunt Marion at Patchwork Cutters, learning a bit about what to do and it’s been her influence really.”

Debbie added: “Asha just loves being in the kitchen, she’s in her element and loves helping with dinner.”

Wirral Globe:
Asha Cockroft, who has won numerous awards for her cake decorating.

As well as using her talent to raise money for charity, Asha – who is a huge Great British Bake Off and Mary Berry fan - has also been using it to a put a smile on the faces of others.

“Just before Christmas, she went with Weatherhead to two different nursing homes. She’d baked scones to take around for the old people which was quite sweet – she’s a little star,” said Debbie.

“She’s on the list for cookery club and is just waiting for a place on that as it’s proven to be quite popular.”

Asha won silver at the recent Cake International competition in Birmingham, with more awards sure to follow.