A TALENTED baker from Cwmbran has scooped several awards at an industry competition for his film-inspired culinary creations.

Paul Williams, of Llantarnam Road, has been in the cake business for more than 30 years and trades in Cwmbran as the managing director of Happy Occasions Cakes Ltd.

Attending the Cake International expo at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre this month, Mr Williams wowed both crowds and judges with his unique take on several iconic film characters.

These ranged from a Harry Potter piece showing a hippogriff leaping out of water, to a detailed Lord of the Rings-inspired miniature - both of which secured him second-place or silver awards in their respective award categories.

The cakes cost between £150 and £500.

Mr Williams, aged 50, was also part of the Welsh Cakes team crowned as Cake-off Champions after decorating a three-tier cake in front of a live audience in just 45 minutes.

He completed this challenge with businesses Polka Dot Teapot, from Llantrisant, and Dragon and Daffodils Cake, based in Pontypridd.

“That’s why I do this,” the baker said. “It’s about pushing yourself and learning new skills in the process”.

A team of four, including Mr Williams, also created a Steampunk Garden showstopper which was so large, it had to be left at the expo.

Mr Williams, describing his process, said the cakes are inspired by his favourite movies and, while difficult to transport, can often lead to repeat custom orders.

While every cake was created from vanilla sponge, butter cream and ganache, exhibition pieces are often over baked so they can be put on display at the business’s Cwmbran showroom.

But the process of bringing an idea to fully-baked reality is often a steep learning curve, added Mr Williams.

For more information on Happy Occasions Cakes Ltd, visit www.happyoccasionscakes.co.uk or follow the company on Twitter: @PaulOccasions