Sian Magee’s award-winning Chelsea Bun

Hosted by Partridges of Gloucester Road, the popular awards are open to professionals and amateur bakers of all ages. This year’s challenge was to create the ultimate spiced bun to fit the theme “Traditional Chelsea Buns Meet Innovation”.

Ms Magee’s Chelsea Bun impressed the judging panel, which included former chef, food business owner and TV and radio presenter Mark Wogan, Partridges owner and managing director John Shepherd, and lifestyle magazine Velvet senior editor Alice Ryan. Entries were judged on both taste and appearance.

The 2026 Judges: Alice Ryan, Velvet magazine and Mark Wogan, TV & Radio Presenter with John Shepherd, owner and managing director of Partridges.

For her brilliant efforts, Sian took home £250 and the prestigious title of Best Chelsea Bun Baker 2026.

Other winners included 10-year-old Lila, who won the Under 18s category and received a bespoke hamper. For the full list of winners, visit World Chelsea Bun Awards.

Judging took place at the Gloucester Road ’North’ Autumn Street Festival on Sunday 20 September, celebrating local businesses, with food, drink and stalls from across the area.

Entrants were invited to make a donation to Partridges’ chosen charity, React, which provides rapid assistance to children with life-limiting illnesses living in financially disadvantaged UK households.

The Awards were sponsored by The Drury Tea & Coffee Company and premium vanilla extract brand Potion de V.