AN ENGINEER saw off two of his competitors last night (Tuesday) to remain in with a chance of winning The Great British Bake Off.

Rob Smart, who works as a space satellite designer at Stevenage aerospace company Astrium, is now one of nine people left battling to be crowned the BBC Two TV programme’s best amateur baker.

Last night desserts were on the menu which presenter Mel Giedroyc said “spells stressed backwards”.

Stressed it certainly was with one contestant using someone else’s custard by mistake – a first on the show.

The first challenge showed Rob making his signature dish, a rhubarb and orange trifle, while in the technical challenge he was voted second for his Ile flottante – or floating islands as they are commonly known.

In the third challenge judge Mary Berry commented that the 54-year-old’s petit fours looked “remarkably professional”.

Next week pies are on the menu – will Rob hang on or will he be heading home?

Tune in to BBC Two at 8pm on Tuesday to find out.