James Freeman of Victoria Bakery has been crowned overall winner at the Tiptree World Bread Awards 2015 with his London bloomer.

At a harvest festival-style ceremony in St John’s Church in Hyde Park, London, on 6 October, Freeman’s loaf was also awarded the winner of the Great British White category.

Freeman said of his win: “It was a complete surprise. I never expected it at all.”

Another big winner on the night was Mark Bennett of Patisserie Mark Bennett, who scooped a clutch of awards including the speciality savoury category. His success at the World Bread Awards followed being presented The Craft Business Award at last month’s Baking Industry Awards, organised by British Baker.